COVID-19 infections among health workers reach 3,422

MANILA, Philippines — The total number of health workers who were infected with the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has reached 3,422 as of Thursday, the Department of Health (DOH) reported.

This was 32 cases higher from DOH’s last report as indicated in its daily COVID-19 situationer released Wednesday evening.

Currently, there is only one medical frontliner in severe condition.

The DOH did not release more data on COVID-19 infection among healthcare professionals such as the total number of recoveries and deaths.

But the latest available data showed there were 34 health workers who succumbed to the respiratory disease.

Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said they are currently exploring options to continue to fund the death and sickness benefits of health workers following the expiration of the Bayanihan to Health As Once Act on June 24.

Under the law, health workers who become severely ill in the line of duty are to get compensation of P100,000 while the family of those who died of COVID-19 in the line of duty should get P1 million.

Presidential spokesman Harry Roque earlier said funds from the Office of the President may be tapped to continue the compensation for health workers.

He also bared that President Rodrigo Duterte is set to call for a special session of Congress for the passage of the Bayanihan to Recover as One Act or Bayanihan 2.

CFC