As of August 26, 2020, DOH Caraga reports receipt of 30 RT-PCR confirmatory results from the GeneXpert TB Reference Laboratory of Butuan Medical Center where 18 tested negative and twelve (12) turned positive for the COVID-19 virus.
The negative RT-PCR results are from High-risk Individuals who had positive Rapid Antibody-based Tests, health care workers and close contacts of previously confirmed cases.
Of the 12 positive cases, 83% (10) are close contacts of previously confirmed local transmission cases while 17% (2) are additional local transmission cases wherein both are health care workers. Fifty percent (6) belong to ages 20-40 years old; the youngest is 5 years old and the oldest is 72 years old. As to sex distribution, 58% (7) are females while 42% (5) are males.
All new confirmed cases are from Butuan City and distributed in the following barangays: Ambago (1), Bonbon (1), Doongan (1), Holy Redeemer (3), Libertad (4), Limaha (1) and San Vicente (1).
As to the medical status of patients, 50% (6) are asymptomatic while the remaining cases have exhibited mild to moderate symptoms. Moreover, asymptomatic cases are strictly monitored in the designated quarantine facilities while symptomatic patients are admitted at identified hospitals for management.
To date, COVID-19 confirmed positive cases in Caraga region now totals to 481 with 337 (70%) recoveries that have been discharged and released, 140 (29%) are active cases, and 4 (0.9%) deaths.
“Isolation is a critical step to mitigate COVID-19 transmission. Even at the least suspicion of having COVID-19 related symptoms (such as fever, cough, colds, loss of sense of smell or taste and diarrhea), individuals should isolate or do self-quarantine to protect themselves and their loved ones. Likewise, even without symptoms but exposed to suspect, probable or confirmed cases, it is a safe measure to carry out. At this point, vigilance of our health and adherence to health protocols are constantly being called for particularly in Butuan City,” Regional Director Jose R. Llacuna, Jr., said
(Source: DOH Center for Health Development – Caraga Facebook page)