Self-report if experiencing symptoms, Quezon City tells residents

A woman undergoes swab testing for COVID-19 at the Balik Probinsya, Bagong Pag-Asa (BP2) Program at the Multi-purpose court 1, BP2 Depot in Quezon City on Thursday (July 22, 2021). (PNA photo by Robert Oswald P. Alfiler)/ File

By Alec Go

The Quezon City Epidemiology and Disease Surveillance Unit (QCESU) urged residents in the city who are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms and are close contacts of known cases to self-report for assistance.

Dr. Rolly Cruz, head of CESU, said self-reporting will “mitigate the spread of the virus and further reduce the number of cases” through the isolation of potential contacts.

The CESU may be reached through its Facebook page and via its contact tracing hotlines 8703 2759, 8703 4398, 09992290751, 09086398086, and 09310957737.

The health office also advised the public to observe health protocols, as well as to isolate themselves if they feel unwell and have a fever, cough, or runny nose, and to wear face masks in crowded and indoor areas.

“While the current national policy allows voluntary usage of face masks in indoor and outdoor spaces, we continue to advise the public to wear masks, especially in crowded areas where the risk of virus transmission is high,” Cruz said.

The recent call is amid the increasing number of COVID-19 cases in the country. May 8 to 14 alone, more than 12,000 cases were reported by the Department of Health.

Around 1,07 COVID-19 cases were recorded in May 8 to 18 in Quezon City, an increase from the preceding week’s 810 cases. The positivity rate also rose to 29.9% from 26.2%.

The CESU said COVID-19 bed occupancy remains low at 35.5% despite the case increase. – gb

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