DOH disowns bulletin on upper respiratory tract infections in China

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Health (DOH) on Monday disowned a circulating message using its name and warning the public of  a “serious”  upper respiratory tract infection currently affecting China.

“The DOH would like to clarify that the message did not come from any verified platforms of the Department,” the DOH said in a statement.

The DOH added that diseases can be avoided by practicing healthy habits, and that respiratory diseases can be avoided by proper masking, sanitation, good ventilation, and other practices.

“Further, the Department reminds everyone that any form of disease can be prevented by practicing healthy habits such as proper diet and exercise. In general, respiratory disease as well as other communicable diseases can be prevented by employing our layers of protection such as sanitation, masking, distancing, good ventilation, and vaccination,” it added.

“The DOH continues to enjoin the public to source information only from legitimate sources and platforms,” it said.