6ID contact tracing up after soldier dies of suspected Covid-19

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 5, 2020): 6ID contact tracing up after soldier dies of suspected Covid-19 (By Edwin Fernandez)

Lt. Colonel Anhouvic Atilano, the Army’s 6th Infantry Division spokesperson. (File photo courtesy of 6ID)

CAMP SIONGCO, Maguindanao – Stricter health protocols are underway in all Army camps under the 6th Infantry Division (ID) after a soldier has died due to suspected coronavirus disease (Covid-19).

Lt. Col. Anhouvic Atilano, speaking for the 6ID, said the measures aim to protect everyone inside and outside the camp, including the soldiers’ immediate families and relatives.

An Army private belonging to the Army’s 7th Infantry Battalion died of health complications, including a possible viral infection.

“The Army private had health issues before joining the military,” Atilano said of the soldier, who was with a pack of joggers in Isulan, Sultan Kudarat, on Nov. 3 when he complained of dizziness.

He was rushed to the hospital and died a few days later. Doctors said the patient manifested symptoms of the virus, such as difficulty in breathing, before his death.

"The swab test result of the patient is yet to be released by health authorities in the next few days," Atilano told reporters here Thursday.

Contact tracing has been going on, especially on soldiers who have close contact with the Army private, Atilano said.

The 6ID area of operation includes the provinces of North Cotabato, Maguindanao, Sultan Kudarat, South Cotabato, and parts of Sarangani and Lanao del Sur.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1120810