COVID-19 RESPONSE. The Regional Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) IN Central Luzon headed by its chairperson Maria Theresa Escolano (left) discussed with Sta. Maria, Bulacan mayor Russel Pleyto on Friday (Sept. 4, 2020) the various strategies on how to enhance fight vs. Covid-19. As of Friday, the total number of confirmed Covid-19 cases in Sta. Maria is 347 with the addition of 14 new cases. (Photo by OCD-Central Luzon)
CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga – The Regional Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) discussed on Friday with local officials of Sta. Maria, Bulacan the various measures and programs in response to the coronavirus disease (Covid-19).
The regional task force, led by its chairperson and Office of Civil Defense regional director Maria Theresa Escolano met Sta. Maria Mayor Russel G. Pleyto and talked about strategies on how to mitigate localized transmission of Covid-19 at the community level.
As of Friday, the total number of confirmed Covid-19 cases in Sta. Maria is 347, with the addition of 14 new cases. This brought the total number of active cases in the town to 106.
On the other hand, the total number of recoveries is 219 while the total number of deaths is 22.
Escolano cited that the zoning containment strategy is one of the effective tools to contain the spread of the disease.
Other topics discussed during the meeting include the Prevent-Detect-Isolate-Treat-Reintegrate strategy under the National Action Plan to fight against the dreaded disease.
The meeting was also an opportunity for the Sta. Maria LGU to showcase its capabilities and mobility assets for various types of disaster response.
The task force also inspected the Sta. Maria LGU-established Covid-19 facilities serving as isolation/quarantine facilities, and for temporary treatment and monitoring for the mild, asymptomatic cases.
Rooms are fully equipped with an air conditioning unit, individual toilet and bath, and medical equipment such as portable oxygen regulator and blood pressure monitor.
Pleyto said that hygiene and sleeping kits are given out upon admission.
Indigent patients and their close contacts are supported with food provisions by the LGU for the duration of their isolation/treatment, he said.
The regional IATF-EID has been visiting various LGUs in the region to share strategies on how to curb Covid-19.
This includes the current health policy and guidelines specifically those pertaining to reporting of cases and contact tracing.
The regional task force likewise provided the LGUs with the necessary support and assistance such as the distribution of personal protective equipment, surgical face masks, and bottles of alcohol. (PNA)
