PPA to sea travelers: Wear face masks

MANILA, Philippines — Sea passengers should observe basic health protocols such as wearing of face masks amid the rising cases of respiratory illnesses, according to the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA).

“Considering the increasing cases of flu-like symptoms, the PPA issued guidelines encouraging the public going to the ports to observe health precautions, including wearing of face masks, constant washing of hands and, as much as possible, social distancing,” PPA general manager Jay Santiago said on Monday.

“We did not require it, but we are reminding sea passengers to observe health protocols,” he added.

The Department of Health earlier issued advisories to reinforce public health and hospital preparedness measures as reports indicate an increase in mycoplasma pneumonia infections among children in China.

Health Undersecretary Eric Tayag said mycoplasma pneumonia causes “walking pneumonia” or mild cases of the disease.