Negros Occidental Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson on Monday, December 6, called on Negrenses to continue observing health protocols, especially during the holidays, amid the threat of the possible entry of the COVID-19 Omicron variant.
Doctors have expressed fear that the loosening up of restrictions under Alert Level 2 that has caused an increase in crowds at malls and other public places, as well social gatherings during the holidays could trigger another COVID-19 surge.
A preliminary study by South African researchers shows that the new super-mutant Omicron variant can increase the risk of reinfection by three times compared to other variants of concern such as Beta and Delta.
Lacson said while no Omicron case has been detected in the Philippines yet, for sure it will visit the country.
“We will just have to be prepared for that. If there is a need to increase the number of COVID-19 centers in the province, then we will do so,” he said.
He said the Cadiz District Hospital is the only remaining COVID-19 center in the province because of the drop of cases, but should the need arise more hospitals will be designated centers for coronavirus-hit patients.
“It’s really up top us now, we have been warned and so we just have to do our respective shares,” he said, in stressing the need to strictly observe health protocols.
He said children should be accompanied by their parents or guardians when they go out.
Dr. Ernell Tumimbang, Negros Occidental provincial health officer, said they are prepared for an Omicron surge.
As a deterrent the provincial government is also closely monitoring all those entering the province, he added.*