DOH Assures Filipinos as Pneumonic Plague Raises Concerns Abroad
PNEUMONIC PLAGUE – With concerns growing over a possible pneumonic plague outbreak abroad, the Department of Health has clarified the current risk to the Philippines.
The Department of Health (DOH) has assured the public that the risk of pneumonic plague spreading to the Philippines remains “very low” following the death of a laboratory worker in Irkutsk, Russia. In a statement reported on Friday, October 9, the agency said it continues to monitor the investigation into the laboratory worker’s death, noting that the exact cause has yet to be confirmed.
“What is known so far is that the worker expired of pneumonia. The specific cause is still being investigated,” the DOH said.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the risk of the disease in Russia is considered “low,” while the risk across Europe remains “very low.”
Infectious disease expert Dr. Rontgene Solante also downplayed the possibility of the disease reaching other countries, citing containment measures and ongoing testing.
“There seems to be zero possibility that it will reach the Philippines…because they have already placed people under quarantine, are controlling it and are conducting a lot of tests,” Solante said in an interview with DZBB.
Pneumonic plague is a severe form of plague that affects the lungs. It can spread from person to person through respiratory droplets released when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Close contact with an infected person may increase the risk of transmission.
Despite its severity, antibiotics can treat the disease, especially when detected early. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are important in preventing complications and reducing the risk of further transmission.
The DOH also emphasized that the Philippines is prepared to respond should a suspected case emerge in the country.
“Should it be needed, the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine can test for plague, and designated hospitals can isolate and treat suspect cases,” the agency added.
For now, the health department said special precautions against pneumonic plague are not necessary in the Philippines, given the current assessment of the risk.
Nevertheless, the public is encouraged to continue practicing everyday health measures to help prevent common illnesses. The DOH’s monitoring efforts and the country’s existing testing and isolation capabilities are intended to support preparedness should the situation change.
Health authorities continue to assess developments related to the incident in Russia as the investigation into the laboratory worker’s death proceeds.
READ ALSO: Teenager Dies From Bubonic Plague After Eating Slain Marmot
