The Department of Health in the Cordillera region has issued a stern advisory for individuals feeling unwell to refrain from participating in festivals and large gatherings. This guidance comes from Jenee Austria, the head of the Communications Management Unit at DOH-Cordillera, who emphasized the importance of staying home or seeking medical attention to prevent the spread of illnesses. The advisory was shared on the agency’s social media platforms, aiming to heighten public awareness and precautionary measures during the festival season, which typically sees an increase in tourists and mass gatherings in the region.
Austria highlighted the significance of personal hygiene and cleanliness in food preparation as crucial steps in preventing disease transmission. She also stressed the need for extra caution around vulnerable groups such as children, pregnant women, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems. In cases where medical attention is required, she advised seeking care from the nearest healthcare provider.
Recent health reports from the region have raised concerns, with two confirmed cases of mpox (formerly known as monkey pox) reported in Baguio City, marking the first instances in the area. Additionally, there has been a significant increase in hand, foot, and mouth disease cases, rising from six to 61 since last year.
In response to these developments, DOH-Cordillera has instructed medical facilities to enhance their infection prevention and control measures, including rigorous sanitation and disinfection of shared spaces and objects. The department is also actively procuring and distributing personal protective equipment, sanitizing agents, and necessary medications. Furthermore, isolation facilities are being prepared to ensure readiness for any potential outbreaks.