Advisory on the Novel Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), Bulletin #9
18 February 2020
To The University Community
From Norman Dennis E. Marquez, MD
University Physician
Subject Advisory on the Novel Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), Bulletin #9
Situation summary:
- From DOH, a total of 521 Persons Under Investigation (PUIs) recorded; 3 are confirmed (+) for SARS-CoV-2; 453 tested (-); 22 pending results (as of 12nn, 17 February 2020)
- All repatriated Filipinos being quarantined in the Athletes’ Village have not manifested signs and symptoms of COVID-19
- China records about 80 clinical trials for different products (including traditional Chinese medicines) that may be used for COVID-19
- Egypt confirmed its first patient with SARS-CoV-2 infection (first in Africa); bringing to 26 the total number of countries with reported COVID-19
o China, Singapore, Korea, Japan, Australia, Malaysia, Philippines, Viet Nam, Cambodia, Thailand, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, USA, Canada, Germany, France, Italy, UK, Russia, Belgium, Finland, Spain, Sweden, UAE, Egypt
WHO Guidelines for repatriation and quarantine of travelers:
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 a 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 or 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, and staff) if you manifest 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 emerge 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, you may send me an email at nmarquez@ateneo.edu or to Engr. Josephy Almosera at jalmosera@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.
