Medical personnel wear a new pair of gloves during the swab testing of drivers, riders and partners of Grab at the Quezon Memorial Circle on July 30, 2020. George Calvelo, ABS-CBN

MANILA — The Department of Health sees no cause for alarm despite a fresh wave of COVID-19 infections in several Asian countries including Hong Kong, Singapore and Thailand.

In a social media post, DOH Secretary Ted Herbosa said that through established mechanisms in the ASEAN, there are ways to share verified information and boost readiness to respond to the health threat.

“Nababantayan ng DOH ang naireport na pagtaas ng kaso ng COVID-19 sa ilang bansa sa Asia,” he said.

(The DOH is able to monitor upward trends of COVID-19 in several Asian countries.)

Infections in the Philippines, Herbosa says, continues to be at a low level with 1,774 cases from January to May 3 or 87% lower compared to the same period last year which  was 14,074.

Breaking it down further, the DOH says 65 infections were logged from April 6 to April 19. This is also lower compared to the 71 cases reported three weeks prior.

The public is once again reminded of the importance of minimum public health standards especially for those who may be feeling unwell.

“Sa kabila ng pagbaba ng kaso ng COVID-19 sa bansa, mas maganda ang patuloy na pagiwas sa sakit.”

(Despite the decrease in the number of COVID-19 cases in the country, it’s always important to exercise caution and avoid getting sick.)

The use of face masks remains optional but is nevertheless recommended by health professionals. The public is once again reminded of proper coughing etiquette and is encouraged to stay home if feeling unwell.

“Regular din tayong maghugas ng kamay at agad na magpakonsulta kung may nararamdaman,” Herbosa said.

(Regularly wash your hands and have yourselves checked should you feel under the weather.)