BACOLOD CITY, Negros Occidental, Philippines – Mayor Evelio Leonardia reminded the public to seek immediate medical attention if they show “even the mildest symptoms” of the coronavirus disease (Covid-19).
In a meeting with the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Bacolod, the mayor told the 61 village heads, “A simple cough, sore throat, headache, colds, diarrhea, or any flu-like symptoms, regardless of age, must be taken into account. Let us always remember – the most important thing is for our people to survive”.
Data from Emergency Operations Center (EOC) showed that in 14 deaths due to Covid-19 from November 1 to 10 are mostly “home deaths,” or patients have contracted the virus despite staying at home.
These 14 fatalities were aged 60 to 90 years old.
Dr. Chris Sorongon, EOC deputy medical for data analysis and assessment, said people in this age bracket are “considered high-risk or highly vulnerable individuals.”
“Early detection at the barangay level, and consequent isolation and treatment, regardless of age, is therefore needed to avoid more COVID deaths in the city,” he added.
The mayor said several of these cases sought medical help too late.
Leonardia reiterated that the City Government continues to offer free consultations and swab tests for people showing symptoms of Covid-19. These services are available at the Bacolod Respiratory Outpatient (BRO) Center located inside the BAYS Center along San Juan Street.
The BRO Center operates from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. from Mondays to Fridays.
Early detection is among the tenets of the City Government’s “Halong, Ugyon Bacolod” campaign, launched last October 29, which primarily focuses on the conduct of simultaneous inspection, monitoring and education activities.