WHO Warns PH on Next COVID-19 Surge

The World Health Organization (WHO) warns the country of another COVID-19 surge if social gatherings not following health protocols continue.

Most cities and municipalities in the Philippines are now placed under Alert Level 1 and Alert Level 2, which are relaxed compared to the quarantine restrictions in the past.

With Holy Week, Ramadan, and the election coming, WHO acting Representative to the Philippines, Dr. Rajendra Yadav, said that the country would face another surge in COVID-19 cases in the coming months.

Yadav emphasized that wearing facemasks in crowded places and getting booster shots are needed to prepare for and possibly avoid any COVID-19 surges to come.

“The continuous recalibration of the country’s COVID-19 response strategies is essential to prepare for a possible surge in cases and manage COVID-19 sustainably. Therefore, WHO recommends focusing on the priority groups that remain unvaccinated and house-to-house vaccination for these groups,” said Dr. Yadav.

As of April 2022, the Philippines already has over 60% fully vaccinated eligible individuals. However, the country is still facing difficulties reaching unvaccinated senior citizens that are most likely to suffer severe COVID-19.

Yadav said that a way to bridge the gap between these vulnerable sectors is to make vaccination sites much more accessible.

“LGUs need to implement a more targeted approach of closer-to-home and mobile vaccinations to reach these vulnerable individuals. Instead, we need to reach these unreached populations by deploying outreach vaccinators immediately. In addition, we need to prioritize geographical areas with the largest number of unvaccinated senior citizens,” said Dr. Yadav.

Moreover, Yadav said that the coming weeks are crucial, especially with the Holy Week and Ramadan and election-related activities.

Yadav urges everyone to follow health safety protocols and get vaccinated or booster shots.

“Let us continue to protect our families and communities and make the holidays safe and meaningful. We can gather safely – in small groups, outdoors, and for shorter durations. Let us continue to encourage our family members, especially senior citizens and those at high risk, to get vaccinated with their primary doses and boosters. No one should be left behind. No one is safe until everyone is safe.” Dr. Yadav said. (ASC)