Guv calls for intensified measures vs COVID-19 as Apayao now under moderate risk
By Redjie Melvic M. Cawis
APAYAO, Feb. 8 (PIA) — With the continuing surge of COVID-19 cases in the province, Governor Eleanor Bulut-Begtang reiterated the implementation of intensified measures against the COVID-19.
Begtang said there is a need to enforce more measures following the surge of COVID-19 cases in the province in recent weeks including the reported 14 COVID-19 confirmed cases in a day on January 16, the highest recorded cases in a single day in the province.
As of February 3, 2021, the Provincial Health Office reported that Apayao is now raised to moderate risk in epidemic risk level based on the 2-week growth rate change and average daily attack rate.
The municipalities of Calanasan, Conner and Flora are now under high risk epidemic level while Santa Marcela town is under moderate risk. The municipalities of Luna, Kabugao and Pudtol are under low risk level.
From a total of 96 COVID-19 confirmed cases as of December 31, 2020, Apayao now has 163 COVID-19 cases as of February 3, with 139 recoveries, 22 active cases and two deaths.
The Governor directed the different local government units to intensify implementation measures including the imposition of zoning containment strategy in their local COVID-19 response efforts and the enhance coordination with various members of their respective local inter-agency task force.
Begtang also encouraged the different LGUs to put up additional quarantine and temporary treatment and monitoring facilities in preparation for the possible increase of COVID-19 patients in their respective localities.
She also emphasized the need to strengthen information education and communication campaign in their areas of responsibility through the assistance of the police and fire personnel and barangay health workers.
Moreover, she reminded the people to continue adhering to all the health protocols like wearing of masks, maintaining proper hygiene such as washing of hands and observance of social and physical distancing to prevent the further spread of the COVID-1.
Begtang stressed that the stricter measures and vigilance being implemented are for the protection of the YApayaos against COVID-19 especially with the detection of the UK variant in Bontoc, Mountain Province and La Trinidad in Benguet. (JDP/RMC- PIA CAR)
