ILOILO City – The mayor of Jamindan, Capiz announced he contracted coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
Exposure to the virus could not be avoided, according to Mayor MacArthur Valdemar, citing the demands of his being the chief executive of his town.
“I lead in the planning and implementation of programs. I deal with various government agencies and people,” he posted on Facebook.
Valdemar, asymptomatic, is now observing strict home quarantine.
He called on those who have close contact with him since Aug. 23 to self-isolate and contact the municipal government through COVID hotline 09079116827 to be assessed by health professionals and for further contact tracing.
Where or from whom did Valdemar contract SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19?
The mayor believed he got it from a confirmed COVID-19 case – before this person knew he was already infected.
“Nag-updanay kami sang Agosto 21 sa Bahaynihan Program sang Philippine National Police sa Barangay Agcagay,” according to Valdemar.
People can catch COVID-19 from others who have the virus. The disease can spread from person to person through small droplets from the nose or mouth which are spread when a person with COVID-19 coughs or exhales.
These droplets also land on objects and surfaces around the person. Other people then catch COVID-19 by touching these objects or surfaces, then touching their eyes, nose or mouth.
When he learned that this person became COVID-19-positive, Valdemar said he immediately went on strict home quarantine beginning Aug. 27 and had himself tested.
But even if he is on home quarantine, Valdemar is still working.
“I am in constant communication with the members of the Jamindan inter-agency task force carrying out contact tracing and disinfection,” he said.
Valdemar appealed for public cooperation.
“Magbinuligay kita paagi sa padayon nga pag-obserbar sang minimum health standards kapareho sang pagsuksok sang facemask, proper hand washing kag social distancing. Magtinir kita sa aton mga panimalay kung wala sang importante nga kadtuan,” stressed the mayor.
Valdemar also urged his people to pray “nga indi magdamo ang kaso kag mahilway kita sa COVID-19.”/PN