Double mask up: DOH exec cites need to enhance public health standards

MARCH 15, 2020 Surgical mask. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO/EDWIN BACASMAS

MANILA, Philippines — Health Undersecretary Leopoldo Vega on Thursday recommended wearing two masks instead of one as a way of enhancing minimum public health standards amid the spike in COVID-19 cases.

“You have to enhance it [minimum public health standards] eh, if there is a double masking, you have to double mask,” he said in a briefing.

“You have to do all of the things that the minimum health standard requires plus the executive power of the local government units to provide iyong tinatawag nilang (what we call) granular lockdowns or zonal containment because this is very effective, and we have seen this last year,” Vega added.

He said enhancing minimum public health standards must be done “individually” since it is an “individual responsibility.”

Aside from using double masks, Vega recommended better ventilation especially in enclosed areas, as well as boosting personal hygiene.

He, however, clarified that this is his personal proposition and not a policy of the Department of Health.

The Health official, meanwhile, expressed confidence that the Philippines is “better prepared” to handle the current COVID-19 surge, especially in terms of public health standards and prevention, and localized lockdowns.

Vega also said healthcare workers, on top of getting vaccinated against COVID-19, now have the experience on how to deal with the situation.

“I think we are better prepared for this situation right now compared with last year. Compared with last year, we are better off, we are better prepared and we can keep on improving and adjusting to the changing times,” he said.

KGA