THE Department of Health (DOH) All Experts Group (AEG) is recommending the use of cloth masks or medical grade face masks as protection against coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19).
DOH Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire, in a town hall session Wednesday, August 18, 2021, said these are among the non-pharmacologic interventions listed under the Philippine Covid-19 living recommendations by the experts.
Other recommendations are face mask with face shield for goggles in areas with sustained community transmission, use of high efficiency particulate (Hepa) filters, selected N95 mask decontamination, and installation of protective physical barriers in areas where physical distancing can not be adhered to.
For healthcare workers not directly taking care of Covid-19 patients, the DOH recommends the use of properly fitted surgical masks, face shields or goggles, and standard personal protective equipment (PPE).
Another recommendation is the cleaning and disinfection of surfaces with appropriate agents.
On the other hand, Vergeire said DOH experts are recommending against ionizing air filters, foot baths, misting tents disinfection chambers and UV (ultraviolet) lamps outside of clinic or hospital setting.
Vergeire said a conditional recommendation has also been made against aerosol boxes during aerosol generating procedures such as intubation.
She also reiterated the existing policies on ventilation, such as conduct of activities in open-air spaces; achieve air change rate of 6 to 12 air changes per hour (ACH); use of exhaust, HVAC systems or Hepa filters; and open windows in public transport. (Marites Villamor-Ilano / SunStar Philippines)