THE Department of Health (DOH)-Central Luzon reminded the public to always observe minimum health standards despite the relaxation of quarantine status in seven provinces in the region.
Since Saturday, May 16, the provinces of Bataan, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Zambales, Pampanga and City of Angeles were placed under modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ), while Aurora, Tarlac and Olongapo City transitioned to general community quarantine (GCQ).
According to the health agency, the Inter-Agency Task Force based their decision to ease the quarantine status on the trends of coronavirus disease (Covid-19) epidemiological curve, health capacity of the country, social factors, economic factors, and security factors.
As of May 17, DOH-Central Luzon reported a total of 486 confirmed cases in the region, with at least four cases added from the previous day alone.
To prevent the spread of virus, DOH-Central Luzon said health protocols such as use of facemask when going out, frequent sanitation and handwashing, avoid touching of surfaces and face and implementation of social distancing must be observed.
Regular monitoring of employees, restriction and immediate reporting to authorities of employees manifesting symptoms must also be conducted for contact tracing.
"With this pandemic, let us put in mind that we will never be going back to normal; rather, we have to gradually accept and embrace the new normal—to be proactive in health and push for a healthier living geared towards a better health outcome and high quality of life." said DOH-Central Luzon regional director Cesar Cassion.
He added that easing of quarantine status does not mean the battle against the highly-contagious disease is over.
"That is why the DOH strongly encourages each one to continue doing his/her civic duty to save fellow Filipinos from this unseen enemy," he stressed.
Cassion urged the public to cooperate with and abide by the protocols imposed by the government aimed at immediately curbing the disease.
"We need the cooperation of every one for us to win this fight. Let us not waste the sacrifices and efforts we have made since this pandemic started. Instead, let us contribute in flattening the curve by constantly practicing minimum health standards. Together, we can beat Covid-19," he said.
