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DOH7 reminds public to be cautious vs XBB.1.5 Omicron variant

 


CEBU CITY, Cebu, Jan. 25 (PIA) -- The Department of Health (DOH) Region 7 has recorded 51 new cases of COVID-19 infection in Central Visayas between Jan. 15 to 22.

Of the total, one case was categorized as severe and critical while one case resulted in death.

DOH-7 Medical Officer IV and Program Manager of Emerging and Re-Emerging Infectious Diseases Dr. Van Philip Baton, during a recent Kapihan sa PIA program, explained that the XBB.1.5 omicron subvariant is a variant of interest with symptoms relatively similar to the Omicron variant.

It is highly transmissible and is closely monitored by the Network for Genomics Surveillance for possible mutations.

Although there are still no cases of XBB.1.5 infection in the region, Baton encouraged the public to be cautious.

He added that getting vaccinated, wearing of face mask, avoiding crowded areas, self-isolation once infected, and regular disinfection must be observed.

He also stressed that washing of hands is “still our number one protection against diseases.”

Meanwhile, Baton disclosed that between Jan. 15 to 22, only 84.2% of the general population and 61% of the senior citizens have been vaccinated.

He added that there will be no procurement for a new batch of vaccines. (MYP/PIA7 Cebu)

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