The Department of Health in the Bicol region (DOH-5) is calling on local government units and other multisectoral partners to step up the implementation of strategies against the possible local transmission of Omicron BA.2.12.1, a mutated strain of the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) Omicron variant.
In a statement, the DOH-5 said a multisectoral combined action is needed to prevent the local spread of the new strain.
“To date, there has been no detected mutated Omicron cases in Bicol Region. This is based on the submitted samples by the Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit of Bicol CHD,” it added.
The DOH-5 warned that the mutated strain is more transmissible due to additional mutations, and has potential in infecting vaccinated individuals which may result in increased Covid-19 cases and hospitalization.
The health department also urged the public to follow the prevention, detect, isolate, treat, reintegrate, and vaccination (PDITR+V) approach and practice minimum public health standards (MPHS) such as wearing of face masks, proper handwashing, sanitation, and social distancing.
The public is also advised to avoid the 3 C’s – Close contact, Crowded and Closed spaces, and isolate immediately once symptoms manifest.
The DOH-5 has attributed the decrease of Covid-19 cases in the region to its continuous vaccination drives.
“Studies show that immunity wanes over time hence the importance of booster shots. Thus, everyone is encouraged to get vaccinated and get boosted,” it said. (PIA5)