A three-year-old Chinese national underwent a consultation yesterday at the Western Visayas Medical Center in Iloilo City after coming down with a fever. The hospital currently serves as the referral hospital for the Department of Health-Region VI (DOH-6). As of press time, DOH-6 Center for Health Development infectious disease section head, Dr. Jane Juanico, said they are currently looking into the matter to determine if the minor will be classified as a “patient under investigation,” or PUI.
“We are closely coordinating with our referral hospital as to the status of the patient,” she explained.
The regional official pointed out, it is part of the general advisory for all travelers who experience flu-like symptoms to seek immediate medical consultation.
If an individual is considered a PUI, there are isolation rooms ready where they will undergo further observation.
Meanwhile, a Hua Siong College of Iloilo Board of Trustees member said they currently have 25 students undergoing a self-quarantine and are set to return home from China.
The school has since released an advisory for parents regarding the ongoing situation.
School officials advised those who traveled to countries affected by the novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) and is exhibiting symptoms such as fever, sore throat, cough, and runny nose should self-quarantine for 15 days. Once a physician presents a medical clearance, they should present that to the school, where they will be subject to further tests.
Meanwhile, starting Monday, February 3, any student found with a temperature of 37.5°C or above will be asked to go home and seek medical attention./WDJ