Residents of Bacolod City are encouraged to exercise caution in the wake of the recent increase in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases in some countries after the detection of the new “FLiRT” subvariants.

Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez, with the City Health Office (CHO), advised everyone to wear masks anew once in an enclosed setting, said the mayor’s spokesperson, Singcang-Airport village chief Caesar Distrito, yesterday.

“The mayor directed the CHO to monitor the situation and prepare the necessary health response plan regarding this health issue,” he added.

In the city government’s advisory, wearing a face mask is encouraged for persons who have flu or any respiratory tract infection, as well as immunocompromised, senior citizens or young children, and also when inside a medical facility such as a clinic, hospital, birthing homes or laboratories.

“Stay home whenever sick and practice good hygiene by covering mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. Also, wash or sanitize hands often and disinfect frequently touched surfaces,” it added.

Residents are urged to hold outdoor gatherings, purify indoor air, and when possible, get vaccinated against flu, pneumonia, and COVID-19.

The Department of Health (DOH) has advised the public to observe minimum public health standards, although the country remains at low risk for COVID-19.

In a media briefing last week, Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa said he would not recommend travel restrictions amid the reported increase in COVID-19 cases in Singapore due to the FLiRT variants, but still advised Filipinos to observe proper cough etiquette, avoid crowded places, frequent handwashing, and encourage wearing of face mask. (PNA)