Expert warns PH must prepare for Delta variant worst-case scenario

An expert warns that the Philippines must prepare for the worst-case scenario due to the potential spread of the Delta variant.

Dr. Gene Nisperos of the UP College of Medicine raised concerns over insufficient testing and surveillance to control the variant's transmission.

He emphasized the need for proactive preparation, stating that assuming the absence of community transmission due to lack of evidence is a dangerous approach.

Nisperos urged the government to ramp up testing and contact tracing, as intervention should happen whether or not local transmission is proven.

He warned against being caught unprepared again, referencing the last surge where people died outside hospitals.

The Department of Health has acknowledged the possibility of undetected Delta variant infections.

Currently, the Philippines has 8 active cases of the Delta variant, with 8 previously tagged as recovered patients testing positive again.