DOH reports 8 Covid-19 Beta variant in Albay

By Sally A. Altea

The Department of Health-Center for Health Development Bicol confirmed local transmission of the Covid-19 Beta variants in the province of Albay.

Based on the results of genomic sequencing by the Philippine Genome Center (PGC), eight cases of Beta variants were reported from Albay, five of which are from the province and three from Legazpi City.

“These specimens were sent to PGC last April 14 and April 28, 2021. Results were received by the Regional Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit (RESU) on July 21, 2021. Validation with the local ESUs is done by RESU,” DOH Bicol said in a press statement.

For the Bicol region, a total of 11 individuals were positive of the Alpha variant, while 22 were positive of the Beta variant, including the eight patients in Albay.

All cases have recovered from Covid-19.

For the Alpha variant, Camarines Sur has recorded eight cases, while Naga City, Masbate and Sorsogon have one case each.

For the Beta variant, Camarines Sur has eight cases, Naga City has four, while Camarines Norte and Sorsogon have one case each.

To determine Covid-19 variants in the Bicol region, specimens are sent to the PGC in Metro Manila, the only center with genomic sequencing in the country.

DOH Bicol stressed the importance of contact tracing, case management and minimum public health standards (MPHS) as the best protection against all types and mutations of Covid-19.

“All Bicolanos must properly wear facemask and face shield, observe social distancing, practice hand washing and sanitation, and avoid crowded and enclosed spaces,” DOH Bicol said.

Attendance to all forms of social gatherings must also be avoided if not essential.

Everyone, both from the public and private sectors, is strongly urged to strictly implement the MPHS in their localities, areas, offices, and establishments.

“The fight against Covid-19 remains as a whole-of-system, whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach hence DOH Bicol appeals to the continuous cooperation from everyone,” DOH Bicol said. (PIA5/Albay/DOH5)