Seaman's COVID-19 case raises local transmission fears

A seaman from Koronadal City in South Cotabato who tested positive for COVID-19 is raising concerns about possible local transmission.

Contact tracing has identified 555 individuals who may have been exposed to the virus, including those who visited nine business establishments that use a digital contact-tracing system.

The patient developed symptoms on August 1 but continued his routine activities until he got tested in Davao City on August 6 and received positive results the next day.

Health officials are investigating further movements of the patient, including attending a wake and church service in Tupi town.

Family members of the patient are quarantined and will undergo rapid antibody testing.