ILOILO CITY (PIA) -- The Department of Health (DOH) in Western Visayas reminds the public that the minimum public health standards (MPHS) plus vaccination remain the best protection against the spread of COVID-19.

During the coordination meeting of health partners and stakeholders on the management of Emerging and Re-Emerging Infectious Diseases (EREIDS), Nov. 9, DOH 6 EREIDS Regional Program Manager Dr. Bea Camille Natalaray discussed the recent issuances relative to the implementation of MPHS, specifically on wearing of face mask.

among elderly, individuals with comorbidities, immunocompromised individuals, pregnant women, unvaccinated individuals, and symptomatic individuals.

Meanwhile, the Order also mandated the continued implementation of the MPHS “to effectively prevent and minimize the spread of COVID-19 in the country.”

“The DOH is directed to continuously update the MPHS guidelines in accordance with this Order. The general public, in compliance with the MPHS, is hereby enjoined to exercise diligence in carrying out health protocols, such as the practice of good hygiene, frequent hand-washing, observance of physical distancing, and maintenance of good ventilation, especially in indoor settings,” the EO 7 stated.

She also reminded local government units (LGUs) in the region to submit regular reports on their vaccination status to DOH as directed by the Order.

Areas that are currently at low risk classification, but at Alert Level 2 status because of failure to meet vaccination targets to warrant de-escalation, are highly encouraged to undertake efforts to further expand their vaccination and booster coverage.

According to Natalaray, for Western Visayas, these are the provinces of Antique and Negros Occidental. (JBG/FRG/PIA6)