No COVID-19 test needed for asymptomatic responders with no history of exposure — Duque

MANILA, Philippines — Responders addressing the onslaught of Typhoon Rolly do not need to undergo COVID-19 testing as long as they are asymptomatic and have no history of exposure to a confirmed or probable case, Health Secretary Francisco Duque III said Monday.

“Nais po namin linawin na hindi kinakailangan sumailalim sa testing ang ating mga responders as long as sila ay asymptomatic at walang history of exposure to a confirmed or probable case as certified by a physician,” Duque said in a televised briefing with other key officials.

(We want to clarify that there is no need for our responders to undergo testing as long as they are asymptomatic and have no history of exposure to a confirmed or probable case as certified by a physician.)

Duque also reminded local government units to designate health officers in evacuation centers and screen evacuees for COVID-19 symptoms.

“Magsagawa po ng symptom screening, clinical and exposure assessment of evacuees para matukoy at ma-isolate ang mga suspect at probable cases,” he said.

(Conduct symptom screening, clinical and exposure assessment of evacuees to identify those who must be isolated as suspect and probable cases.)

“Bigyan ng hiwalay na silid ang mga high-risk individuals tulad ng mga may edad 60 years pataas, may mga karamdaman, buntis at mga bata,” he added.

(Allot a separate room for high-risk individuals like those aged 60 years old and above, with comorbidities, pregnant and children.)

Duque issued the reminder as authorities evacuated thousands of families due to Rolly which was said to be the world’s strongest typhoon this year.

JE