Advisory on the Novel Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), Bulletin #11
21 February 2020
To The University Community
From Norman Dennis E. Marquez, MD
University Physician
Subject Advisory on the Novel Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), Bulletin #11
Situation summary:
- From DOH, a total of 597 Persons Under Investigation (PUIs) recorded; 3 are confirmed (+) for SARS-CoV-2; 456 tested (-); 50 pending results (as of 12nn, 20 February 2020)
- The DOH/DILG/DOT joint statement clarifies the guidelines on large assemblies such as concerts and festivals: it is all right to hold public events, just observe the precautionary measures given by DOH.
- Iran confirms 2 new cases of COVID-19; there are now 27 total number of countries with reported COVID-19
o China, Singapore, Korea, Japan, Australia, Malaysia, Philippines, Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, USA, Canada, Germany, France, Italy, UK, Russia, Belgium, Finland, Spain, Sweden, UAE, Egypt, Iran
General preventive measures:
- Proper hygiene practices and effective hand-washing techniques
- Cover mouth and nose with tissue paper when coughing or sneezing then properly dispose of used tissue paper as infectious waste
- Keep distance of at least 1 meter (around 3 feet) from a person suspected of having SARS-CoV-2 infection or flu-like signs and symptoms
- Avoid touching eyes after coughing/sneezing
- Do not spit just anywhere
- Proper handling and disposal of wastes; used masks should be considered as infectious waste and should be disposed of properly
- Avoid unnecessary assembly or mass gathering, especially in closed venues
- Gargle with warm saline solution 2-3x a day when having cough and sore throat
- Hydrate regularly and maintain a healthy lifestyle
- Process raw food properly/hygienically and cook food well
Members of the community and visitors to the Ateneo campuses are highly encouraged to inform/call the Office of Health Services/Infirmaries in their respected units (for students and visitors) or OHRMOD (for faculty, professionals, administrators, staff) if you anifest the following:
fever WITH a history of travel to areas with confirmed cases of SARS-CoV-2. infection in the 14 days prior to the onset of signs and symptoms
fever, cough/cold, difficulty breathing WITH a history of travel to areas with confirmed cases of SARS-CoV-2 infection in the 14 days prior to the onset of signs and symptoms
severe acute respiratory infection requiring hospitalization WITH a history of travel to areas with confirmed cases of SARS-CoV-2 infection in the 14 days prior to the onset of signs and symptoms
fever or signs and symptoms of respiratory infection within 14 days of close contact with any of the following:
o a confirmed or suspected person infected with **SARS-CoV-2
o a healthcare facility in China
Should you develop the signs and symptoms at home, do not go to school and inform/call the appropriate offices for specific concerns. Wear a mask and minimize contact with other persons at home. Please inform/call your family doctor about your condition before going to his/her clinic so that they can take precautions as well.
You can also refer to the following links for more information and updates:
Department of Health, https://www.doh.gov.ph/2019-nCov
World Health Organization, https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html
These bulletins are intended to provide general updates and relevant guidelines as events related to the COVID-19 outbreak evolve. Expect changes and adjustments in precaution guidelines as well as in preventing the spread of the infection as new information emerges daily. Also, given the volume of news reports and opinions being circulated in media and the internet, we enjoin everyone to refrain from sharing unverified information that can confuse or mislead others.
If you have any concerns/inquiries, please send me an email at nmarquez at ateneo.edu or to Engr Josephy Almosera at jalmosera at ateneo.edu.
Let us work together to build a safer and healthier community that we may serve the people for the greater glory of God.
