MANILA, Philippines — For the second time, Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Eduardo Año contracted the coronavirus disease 2019.
Interior Secretary Eduardo Año. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO / NINO JESUS ORBETA
In a statement on Sunday, Año said he got tested for the novel coronavirus last August 14 and received a positive result on August 15.
Año first tested positive for COVID-19 last March 31. He eventually recovered and got a negative PCR result on April 13.
He likewise disclosed that he “began experiencing flu-like symptoms including a sore throat and body aches” on August 13.
“I began my self-quarantine and got myself PCR tested on August 14. Last night, August 15, I received my test result informing me that I am once again positive for COVID-19,” Año said.
“In the meantime, I am being closely monitored by my doctors while I am in isolation,” he added.
He also urged individuals he was in close contact with to “go on self-quarantine, observe any symptoms and take appropriate action.”
“I also make this announcement to emphasize the severity of the virus, and to encourage everyone to wear a mask, wash their hands frequently, and practice social distancing,” the DILG chief said.
“By adhering to these guidelines, we can all help keep our loved ones and our community safe,” he added.