ILOILO – Six hundred eighteen people have so far died due to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in Western Visayas, leaving empty seats at some Christmas tables.
As grim as it may sound, Dr. Renilyn Reyes, head of the Department of Health (DOH) Region 6’s Public Health Program Development, urged the public to take a look at the region’s COVID-19 metrics in hopes of discouraging holiday gatherings.
According to Reyes, Christmas gatherings are seen as “super spreader” events and could spur another wave of COVID-19 infections.
She also warned the public against complacency.
“We should never be complacent. While celebrating events for Christmas, let’s put in mind the minimum health standards,” Reyes stressed.
Last week, DOH-6 released an advisory signed by its chief Dr. Marlyn Convocar, reiterating the four key reminders for a safe and healthy celebration.
Here are the salient points:
* Avoid the use of any firecrackers especially during the New Year celebration to prevent fireworks-related injuries. Instead, the public is advised to use substitute noise makers such as car horns, stereos or even pots and pans at home. These alternatives are simple, safe and fun even for children.
* Carefully choose toys and gifts that are safe for children. It is important to consider age-appropriate toys and gift items that are environment-friendly and safe from possible choking hazards and injuries.
* Serve healthy food for the holidays. Avoid too salty, fatty and too sweet food. Moderation should be the byword.
* With the threat of the COVID-19 transmission still high, the DOH recommends getting together and celebrating exclusively with household members only and virtual gathering with those not residing in the same house as most infections are made through close contact and prolonged exposure.
* limit the number of people in social gatherings and activities; avoid activities that may include traveling; opt for activities with only a short duration of contact; practice BIDA (B-bawal walang mask, I-i-sanitize ang mga kamay, D- dumistansya ng isang metro, A-alamin ang totoong impormasyon); avoid contact with high-touch surfaces; ensure proper ventilation in venues; and increase physical and mental resilience.
As Dec. 19, the region had a total of 21,065 COVID-19 cases – 1,157 of which were active, 19,285 recovered and 618 dead./PN
