BARMM declares ‘Code Red’ alert on COVID-19

COTABATO CITY –– Health authorities in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) declared a ‘Code Red’ alert to all health facilities following the increase of coronavirus disease cases (COVID-19) in the country.

BARMM Health Minister Dr. Safrollah Dipatuan said that under Code Red, all hospitals should be ready to attend to the health needs of anyone showing symptoms of the virus.

“We are all ready to respond, help, and protect persons showing signs or symptoms of COVID-19,” Dipatuan told reporters.

He said he had ordered hospital heads to prepare a dedicated ward for patients suspected for COVID-19.

While BARMM remained COVID-19-free, Dipatuan said the Ministry of Health would be ready to respond to the situation.

Dipatuan advised the public to practice preventive measures such as frequently washing their hands using soap and water; maintaining social distancing; and avoiding hugging, kissing, or handshaking with people, touching their eyes, nose, and mouth.

The President declared a state of public health emergency on Monday, March 9, as the number of COVID-19 cases in the country doubled overnight.

In Kidapawan City, officials said 16 of the 23 persons under monitoring (PUMs) for COVID-19 had completed their 14-day mandatory quarantine without manifesting any of the symptoms of the disease.

Kidapawan City Mayor Joseph Evangelista said in a statement the six remaining residents listed as PUMs were still undergoing quarantine, while the seventh was sent to the Cotabato Regional and Medical Center in Cotabato City after he showed COVID-19 symptoms.

Swab samples were taken from the patient, who had a recent travel history to Hong Kong, and sent to the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine for COVID-19 testing.

Test results, however, turned out negative for COVID-19, Evangelista said. He said the patient was recovering well and was ready for discharge.

The six who remained in quarantine have traveled to South Korea, Hong Kong, and Macau, he said.

“Your city government along with the DOH is constantly working to monitor and prevent the spread of COVID-19,” Evangelista assured the public./lzb