Pandemic protocols helped slow down other diseases – DOH

MANILA, Philippines — Health protocols imposed on the public to avoid the transmission of COVID-19 have slowed down other diseases as well, Health Secretary Francisco Duque III revealed the other day.

Speaking at a press briefing, Duque said there has been a 40 percent to 90 percent decrease in various diseases because of the minimum health standards (MHS) against COVID-19.

“When we implemented MHS, there has been a drop of almost 90 percent in the cases of measles and dengue by almost 70 percent,” he noted.

The decline was also observed in the cases of leptospirosis, bloody and watery diarrhea, acute meningitis and typhoid, among others.

These diseases are commonly prevented by observing proper hygiene and personal sanitation and physical distancing or by avoiding crowded areas.

Duque maintained this proved that there is “value added” in adhering to the health measures against COVID-19.

“I think it is a consolation to know that our hospitals are not overwhelmed (with other diseases) now that we have COVID-19. Can you imagine if there is a spike in dengue or measles and then we have COVID-19?” he said.

The health chief cited that from February to April last year, the country had measles outbreaks. This was followed by “all-time record-breaking” dengue cases reaching around 400,000.

“What if we had COVID-19 last year? I don’t know if we can survive that. God is great,” he added.