Cayetano’s staffer is 80th COVID-19 case in House of Representatives

FILE PHOTO: A computer image created by Nexu Science Communication together with Trinity College in Dublin, shows a model structurally representative of a betacoronavirus which is the type of virus linked to COVID-19, better known as the coronavirus linked to the Wuhan outbreak. NEXU Science Communication/via REUTERS

MANILA, Philippines — A female staffer from the office of Speaker Alan Cayetano has contracted the coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

House Secretary-General Jose Luis Montales on Thursday said the employee is the 80th COVID-19 case in the lower chamber.

The employee, who last reported for work from September 14 to 18, got tested for the coronavirus after experiencing body weakness, headache, colds, and the loss of smell and taste.

Of the 80 cases in the House of Representatives, 14 are considered active.

“Contact tracing is ongoing,” Montales said.

So far, 10 lawmakers have tested positive for the coronavirus, the latest of them is Gabriela Party-list Rep. Arlene Brosas. 

Two of House members have also died of the deadly respiratory disease, namely Senior Citizens party-list Rep. Francisco Datol and Sorsogon Rep. Ditas Ramos.

/MUF