BY DOMINIQUE GABRIEL BAÑAGA
BACOLOD City – Mayor Neil Lizares of Talisay City, Negros Occidental is appealing to all hospitals in this capital city to closely coordinate with local government units.
The call of Lizares came after a healthcare worker – now Talisay City’s Patient No.30 – tested positive for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
“He (health worker) was advised by the hospital management to undergo home quarantine as he was feverish. The hospital management failed to coordinate and inform us of this incident. We only knew of the condition of Patient No. 30 after his test result was released,” said Lizares, who took to social media to express his dismay.
“Had we known prior, we could have taken the necessary steps to better handle the situation at the earliest possible time,” the mayor pointed out.
To preempt possible transmission, Lizares immediately ordered the lockdown of Purok Lily in Baranagay Zone 10 where the positive case resides.
“I will be writing a letter to all hospitals in Bacolod City requesting them to properly inform us of incidents of medical frontliners showing symptoms or being suspected to have COVID-19. I am asking for proper coordination, communication and cooperation. These health workers are our own and we should protect them,” Lizares said.
As of Monday, Talisay City has a total of 33 confirmed cases, according to Lizares.
“Let us help one another survive this pandemic. Practice proper handwashing, proper wearing of face masks, and strict physical distancing. Please avoid crowded places and do not go out if you have no necessary transactions outside your home. Remind and gently reprimand those who do not follow the law. Let us educate our fellow citizens so we can heal as one,” he said./PN
