Dr. Manuel Kelly Jr. MD DPCP, medical internist, Baguio City.
MANILA – The coronavirus outbreak proved to be tough for medical front-liners, some of whom have contracted the disease while saving lives on the front line.
Manuel Kelly Jr., a 46-year-old practicing medical internist both at the Baguio Medical Center in Baguio City and at the Cordillera Hospital of the Divine Grace in La Trinidad, Benguet, contracted Covid-19 while on duty.
He tested positive on March 27 despite being asymptomatic.
His first sign of infection showed when he was already admitted to a hospital on April 1.
He said he suffered from "slight phlegm formation and diarrhea."
He was isolated for 14 days at the Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center (BGHMC) with no visitors allowed, not even his family.
Kelly said he could remember the discomfort he had to endure amid the full-blown infection.
The good thing is, he said, his body reacted positively to the Covid-19 treatment.
"I was worried about the phlegm formation but I just laid it out to God. I ask God to guide me through the ordeal," he told the Philippine News Agency.
He said contracting Covid-19 taught him to become more cautious in practicing his medical career.
"Walang pinipili ito kahit sa tingin mo maingat ka na, kailangan doble ingat pa rin (the infection chooses no one even if you think you've been careful enough, you still need to be extra cautious)," he said.
On April 14, he was discharged from the hospital.
He stood strong battling Covid-19, not only as a doctor, but also as a patient.
Kelly said he has no medical issue right now, however, he has to rest for a few days to fully recover.
He expressed his eagerness to go back to his sworn duty.
"I'm happy that I recovered. After this, I'm eager to go back to work," he said.
He may have been infected with the deadly virus but he is raring to go and continue serving his countrymen as a doctor.
He reminded people to practice social distancing, proper hygiene and proper use of face masks, eat nutritious foods, and never forget to pray.
He believes that the country will surpass the threat of the Covid-19 pandemic.
"Continue (staying healthy), together, we can survive this pandemic and we will come out victorious," he said. (PNA)
