The New Corona Virus

The catastrophe brought about by the New Corona Virus (NCoV) has not only gained world wide attention but has instilled fear to most of us. Allegedly emanating from Wuhan, China where about four hundred ninety (490) persons have already died and more than twenty-three thousands (23,000) infected, the virus has reportedly reached tourists destination countries like Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, Korea, Japan and Thailand. The US is confirmed to have eleven (11) cases. This is a World Health Organization (WHO) data as of February 3, 2020. Reports are that Wuhan, China where the virus originated, has practically become a ghost city. Because of these reported cases, health authorities have advised the use of face masks as a means of preventing contamination whenever in crowded places. It is unfortunate however, that some unscrupulous businessmen have increased the prices of face masks instead of helping to have the items within the reached of the poor and those in most need of them. It is worthwhile to note however, that here in Naga, a well known super mart and department store located along the Diversion road has reportedly distributed free face masks to it customers. May your tribe increase!

In the meantime, print and tv and other broadcast media reports are that the Duterte administration is ready to evacuate OFWs from Wuhan and other parts of China. Facilities at Clark Field in Pampanga are reportedly being readied as evacuation sites for the OFWs where they will be medically examined if affected by the virus, before being allowed to leave for their homes. It has also been reported that a cargo vessel coming from Japan was not allowed to dock in Subic, after a crew was allegedly found to be suffering from the virus. These preventive measures being taken by the DU3 administration is well taken and commendable.

TRIVIA: Belated greetings to Mons. Noe Badiola, Parish Priest of the Naga Metropolitan Cathedral, who celebrated his birthday anniversary last February 2. Greetings also to Henry Sabilla and his lovely spouse who visited us this morning at our place. My spouse Minda and this writer were their wedding sponsors years back. They are not permanent residents of San Diego, California.

QUOTATION OF THE WEEK: “MEN AT SOMETIME ARE MASTERS OF THEIR FATE.” SHAKESPEARE

FOR OUR WORD OF LIFE: “FOR I AM THE LORD YOUR GOD, WHO GRASP YOUR RIGHT HAND, IT IS I WHO SAY TO YOU FEAR NOT, I WILL HELP YOU.” ISAIAH 41;13