MANDALUYONG CITY -- Philippine Red Cross (PRC) Chairman and CEO Sen. Richard "Dick" Gordon reiterates the importance of practicing health protocols this holiday season due to the rising cases of COVID-19 in the country. The Department of Health (DOH) recorded 889 new cases on December 28, 2021 compared to 261 new cases five days prior.

With the threat of the Omicron Variant spreading rapidly across other countries, PRC Chairman Gordon warns the public of a possible surge in the Philippines, and urges testing to quell the tide.

"We must intensify our testing and vaccination to prevent another surge. Isolate all returning passengers to prevent transmission of the Omicron Variant. The best way of protection is to prevent ourselves from contacting the virus through practicing health protocols, proper hygiene, regular testing, and vaccination, " Chairman Gordon said.

The highly transmissible Omicron Variant is now spreading rapidly in the US and the UK. The UK reported 183,037 new cases which is a new record and over 53,000 more than the previous highest figure. This led to increase in the number of patients in hospitals who have tested positive for the coronavirus.

Despite the ongoing relief operations to Typhoon Odette-battered provinces, Chairman Gordon ordered all PRC Chapters nationwide to prepare all necessary equipment to combat COVID-19. Among the initiatives of PRC are the 14 molecular laboratories, Bakuna Buses, Bakuna Centers, Emergency Field Hospital, Medical Tents, Isolation Facilities, Hot Meals on Wheels Food Trucks, and Negative Pressure Ambulances.

PRC, the leading humanitarian organization in the Covid-19 response, has conducted over 5.1 Million tests, vaccinated more than 823,173 individuals, and continues to cater to thousands of patients in its emergency field hospitals and isolation facilities to support individuals affected by COVID-19.

"While we prepare all our assets that will combat COVID-19, it is important as individuals to prevent it by practicing health protocols. It is not the time to be complacent. We should wear a mask when going out, protect our eyes by using a shield or goggles if possible, keep our distance from others, practice hand hygiene as often as possible, do not unnecessarily travel, and get vaccinated!" Gordon added. (Philippine Red Cross)