WHO advises prioritizing COVID-19 testing for severe symptoms, elderly

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that the Philippine government prioritize testing for individuals with severe symptoms, the elderly, and those with underlying health conditions due to limited test kit supply.

Dr. Rabindra Abeyasinghe, WHO Representative in the Philippines, stated that limited testing resources should be focused on symptomatic individuals to curb the surge in infections.

He emphasized that the majority of COVID-19 transmission, estimated at nearly 90 percent, comes from symptomatic people, making their identification and isolation crucial.

Abeyasinghe advised individuals experiencing symptoms to practice social distancing and self-isolate from family members.

The WHO also recommends that symptomatic individuals and health workers use face masks during this period.

This guidance comes as the Philippines reported 501 cases and 33 fatalities, with Luzon under an enhanced community quarantine to combat the pandemic.