Solon tells public: Never get swayed by novel coronavirus hysteria

January 27 ------ ACT-CIS party-list Representative Niña Taduran on Sunday urged the public to take extra care of their health, but reminded them not to be carried away by the hysteria arising from the novel coronavirus that has hit several countries. “We know that the novel coronavirus is similar to SARS and MERS-COV, so there is no reason to panic. Just like any other virus, a stronger immune system is the key to beat this," Taduran said in a statement. "A healthy lifestyle, clean environment and vigilance can help protect us from the viruses,” she added. Taduran said flu-like symptoms, especially those observed from individuals who just came from other countries, should not be taken lightly.

“Seek immediate health care, eat nutritious food and rehydrate,” she said. Also, the lawmaker warned manufacturers and sellers of face masks not to overcharge or hoard such items considering that many people are in need of protection from the novel coronavirus. She also called on the country's port of entries to actively inspect passengers particularly those coming from other countries. “We have recovered from SARS and MERS COV. In fact, we had the lowest number of SARS victims when this epidemic hit the world," Taduran said. "Mayroon na tayong mga sistemang nakalatag para rito. Striktong pagpapatupad lang ng mga ito ang kinakailangan,” she added.

Originating from Wuhan, China, the new coronavirus has been infecting people in the United States, Taiwan, Thailand, Japan, South Korea, and Macau. At least 56 people have died while almost 2,000 others were infected by the novel coronavirus in China, according to a report by Agence France-Presse.

Source: gmanetwork.com