The island of Batanes reported its first case of novel coronavirus on Tuesday after 8 months of being COVID-free.
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The first confirmed patient is a locally stranded individual who arrived on the island last Sep. 22 via the Philippine Air Force. The patient tested positive for the virus on Monday.
The patient, who shows no symptoms, is currently under strict isolation at the Batanes Resort. Close contacts and interactions are also under quarantine and are being monitored by the province's COVID-19 task group.
Strict observance of health protocols such as wearing of face mask and face shields, frequent disinfections, and proper social distancing is encouraged to prevent the spread of the respiratory disease.
Main image from Unsplash.
