CHO raises concern on rising COVID-19 cases in Holiday season

By Mariella Angela Oladive

The City Health Office expressed concern over the notable increase in COVID-19 cases from the last week of November to the first week of December 2023.

Dr. Jan Reygine Ansino, Medical Officer of the Iloilo City Epidemiological Surveillance Unit (CESU), the daily average of cases reached as high as 20 in the past weeks..

“As of December 12 this year, we have a total of 63 active cases, with 1,211 confirmed cases since January. A total of 1,125 recovered cases, and 24 deaths,” Dr. Ansino reported during a press conference on December 12.

Of particular concern is the age group of 21 to 30, which has been mostly affected. Notably, the last peak was observed around May and June, and now there’s a resurgence from November to December.

Out of the documented cases, 90% are mild or asymptomatic, but the increase in hospital admissions, including frontline workers, raises alarm. Frontline workers, especially, are urged to take extra precautions, considering the changing climate, flu season, and the ongoing COVID-19 threat.

Despite most cases being mild to moderate, the recent spike has prompted heightened vigilance.

Dr. Ansino discussed the circumstances contributing to the surge, including Christmas and business gatherings, conventions, and increased travel. The optional public use of face masks is also a factor, especially in crowded places like malls and open areas.

Addressing vaccination, she noted that the majority of cases involve vaccinated individuals, with only a small portion unvaccinated due to factors like age or underlying health conditions. While the local government is yet to announce plans for further vaccination efforts.

Dr. Ansino emphasized the importance of preventive practices such as frequent handwashing, the use of face masks, and the avoidance of crowded places, especially during the holiday season.

Drawing attention to flu-like symptoms, she urged the public not to ignore them, particularly individuals who are immunocompromised, as they are at a higher risk of severe outcomes.

“As of December, nagasaka aton cases sa COVID. Gina-advise ko gid sa pumuluyo nga kon pwede mag-face mask kita kag maghugas kamot. Kon magmasakit, pakonsulta dayon sa doctor para maavoid naton maglala ang sintomas especially mga bata kag tigulang nga immunocompromised. Kon may ara sintomas, inform your boss kag marequest absent, para makapakonsulta kag para indi malatnan ang iban nga pumuluyo,” Dr. Ansino stated.

(Since December, COVID cases have been escalating. I advise the public to wear face masks and wash their hands regularly. If we feel ill, see a doctor to avoid getting worse. Especially among children and immunocompromised elderly. If you have symptoms, don’t go to work to avoid spreading the disease)

These measures aim to mitigate the growing numbers, particularly during the holiday season, to safeguard the well-being of the population.

Cooperation from the public, strict adherence to safety measures, and prompt medical consultation are deemed essential to curb the spread and impact of COVID-19 in the city.