DOH issues home quarantine guidelines

MANILA, Philippines — To prevent the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) from spreading further, the Department of Health (DOH) is urging those who may have been exposed to infected individuals to go on self quarantine even if they are not experiencing symptoms of the disease.

Health Assistant Secretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said those with history of travel to COVID-affected areas or possible exposure to the potentially deadly virus should isolate themselves or stay home for 14 days.

“They should separate the spoons, plates and drinking glasses and should avoid interaction with members of their family if possible,” Vergeire said.

She said those manifesting symptoms should wear masks and minimize interaction with other people inside their homes.

Those who have no rooms of their own should wear a mask if they are symptomatic or experiencing fever, sore throat and other symptoms of respiratory infection.

According to Vergeire, the DOH has issued the necessary guidelines for home quarantine.

The DOH, she said, has already shifted to home quarantine instead of sending suspected cases to quarantine facilities as the number of persons under investigation (PUIs) continues to rise.

Vergeire said there is still no evidence to prove that COVID-19 can be transmitted through cash.

“There is no basis to say that (transmission through cash). But as we have been always saying, the people should practice the universal precautionary measures such as frequent washing of hands to lower their risk of infection,” she said.