Ensure physical distancing in evacuation centers, DOH reminds LGUs

MANILA, Philippines — Even with the emergency brought by Typhoon Ambo, the Department of Health reminded local government workers and families alike to observe health protocols such as physical distancing in evacuation centers to prevent an onset of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in the area.

DOH spokesperson Undersecretary Ma. Rosario Vergeire issued the reminder during the Laging Handa briefing on Thursday as “Ambo” was expected to wreak havoc in the Bicol region.

“Kailangan po makapagpatupad at makagawa ng istratehiya kung saan magkakaroon ng pagkakahiwa hiwalay at kahit isang metro po ang layo ng bawat pamilya sa evacuation centers (Strategies must be implemented where physical distancing of at least one meter may observed between families inside evacuation centers),” Vergeire said.

“Nakikita po natin ngayon yung mga evacuation centers natin, most of our LGUs have their own tents which separate each families.  Sana po mapatupad po natin yan ngayon para po kahit papaano ay meron po tayong sinasabi nating minimum health standards to prevent further infection in this kind of facility,” she added.

(Most of our LGUs provide tents which separate each family. This must be implemented so that there will be minimum health standards to prevent further infection in this kind of facility.)

Albay is already readying evacuation centers that may cater to about 80,000 families or 400,000 individuals.

The state weather bureau said Typhoon Ambo is forecast to landfall Thursday afternoon or evening.

EDV