Fearing COVID-19 infection, 150 healthcare personnel under quarantine 

MANILA, Philippines — Even healthcare workers are being affected by the threat of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in the country.

In a Facebook post, The Medical City disclosed that as of March 20, 150 of its healthcare workers are under quarantine over possible exposure to the virus.

There are also 54 persons under investigation (PUI) and 18 confirmed COVID-19 cases admitted at the hospital, The Medical City said.

In an interview with radio station DZMM, The Medical City president and CEO Dr. Eugenio Ramos said that ten of its healthcare workers has been added to its list of staff under quarantine.

“Kahapon, ‘yung naka-quarantine naming mga doctors at saka nurses 140. Ngayon, tumaas nang 150 [Yesterday, our doctors and nurses under quarantine are only 140. Today, it increased to 150],” Ramos said.

https://www.facebook.com/152207991456089/posts/3198238540186337/

Ramos said aside from the fast-spreading phase of the virus as well as exposure of healthcare workers, they are also running out of personal protective equipment (PPEs).

“’Yung kuwarto nako-convert na namin sa mga wards para lang sa mga COVID-19 [Our rooms are being converted to wards for COVID-19],” Ramos said.

The Medical City said it has implemented a single entry and exit scheme for all visitors.

“Patients with fever and respiratory symptoms [cough and colds] are advised to call the Emergency Room,” the hospital said.

Edited by JPV