THE Provincial Health Office (PHO) in Negros Occidental urged Negrenses to be more vigilant after it was confirmed that the UK variant of the Covid-19 virus had already entered the country.

Dr. Ernell Tumimbang, PHO head, said the new variant is far more contagious compared to the original variant, although there is currently no evidence that it is deadlier.

As the number of Covid-19 cases continues to drop in the province, Tumimbang urged Negrenses to continue practicing minimum health protocols such as wearing face masks and face shields, as well as observing physical distancing.

Tumimbang further advised the public to get vaccinated once the Covid-19 vaccines become available to protect themselves.

The PHO head also supported the provincial government's decision to continue securing its borders by subjecting those entering the province to undergo testing and quarantine.