In May 2024, the Philippines witnessed a surge in COVID-19 cases, with the Department of Health (DOH) reporting 877 new cases from May 7 to 13, averaging 125 cases per day. During this period, there were also five reported fatalities, and seven individuals among the new cases were in severe or critical condition. As of May 12, hospitals had admitted a total of 116 severe and critical COVID-19 cases. Despite the increase, the DOH noted that it was smaller than previous spikes.
In its May 17 update, the World Health Organization (WHO) highlighted three new variants under monitoring (VUM), including JN.1.18, KP.2, and KP.3, commonly referred to as the "FLiRT" variants. The term "FLiRT" refers to specific amino acid changes in the virus's spike protein. However, the DOH stressed that there is currently no evidence showing that the KP.2 and KP.3 variants cause severe COVID-19.
Neighbouring Singapore also experienced a surge in COVID-19 infections, which has been attributed to the FLiRT variants. These variants present no distinct symptoms, making it challenging to differentiate them from other COVID strains or common viral illnesses such as the flu or the common cold.
For employees and employers, here are some key points to keep in mind:
Keep up with COVID vaccination: Vaccination is crucial in reducing the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death associated with COVID-19.
Follow preventive measures: It is important to adhere to preventive measures such as avoiding close contact with sick individuals, practicing proper mask usage, maintaining good hand hygiene, and improving ventilation in indoor spaces.
Sick leave policies: As per CDC recommendations, employees with flu-like symptoms should stay home until at least 24 hours after their symptoms improve without the use of fever-reducing medications
Employers should communicate sick leave policies to employees before the flu season begins to prevent the spread of illness in the workplace and to ensure the wellbeing of their workforce.
By staying informed and taking appropriate precautions, both employees and employers can contribute to the collective efforts in combating the new coronavirus variants and safeguarding public health.
