8 unvaxxed Filipinos from China test positive for Covid-19: DOH

By Ma. Teresa Montemayor

January 4, 2023, 7:19 pm

<p>DOH <em>(PNA file photo)</em></p>

DOH (PNA file photo)

MANILA –A total of eight unvaccinated Filipinos who arrived in the country from China have tested positive for the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19), the Department of Health (DOH) said Wednesday.

The eight Filipinos have undergone antigen tests that yielded positive results when they arrived at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport between Dec. 27, 2022, and Jan. 2, 2023.

"Based on current protocols, non-fully vaccinated individuals who are unable to present a negative pre-departure test result are tested upon arrival at the airport," the DOH said in a Viber message.

The agency noted the individuals are currently under isolation and have undergone confirmatory RT-PCR testing on Dec. 31, 2022, with positive results.

As this developed, the DOH has assured the public of relentless Covid-19 monitoring and surveillance activities nationwide and would “keep an eye for global health events that may occur.”

It also reminded the public “to help prevent transmission through layers of protection such as sanitation, masking, distancing, good ventilation and vaccination in addition to practicing healthy habits and a healthy lifestyle.”

Earlier, the DOH directed the Bureau of Quarantine to intensify quarantine protocols such as heightened surveillance of all respiratory symptoms in all travelers and conveyances coming from China.

To date, there are no cases of XBB 1.5 detected in the country. (PNA)

 

 

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