NAIA Terminal 1 (PNA file photo by Cristina Arayata)
MANILA – The management of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) encourages travelers to wear face masks and observe sanitary measures amid the reported rise in cases of streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS) infection in Japan.
In an interview, Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) head executive assistant Chris Bendijo said passengers are also encouraged to reach out to authorities if they feel some symptoms so the medical team can immediately attend to their concerns.
Bendijo advised passengers to wash their hands regularly and cover their mouths when coughing or sneezing.
He, however, said the wearing of face mask is not mandatory.
"Be aware and observant. Be careful of who you mingle with at the airport," he added.
In a radio interview on Thursday, infectious diseases expert Rontgene Solante confirmed the presence of STSS in the country.
The Department of Health (DOH) reportedly stated that the STSS is not yet a public health concern.
"We are constantly coordinating with the DOH through the BOQ (Bureau of Quarantine) to inform us if they have monitored an uptick in cases involving any virus so we could prepare the policies that we should implement to prevent contamination," Bendijo said.
According to reports, STSS is a rare bacterial infection that can develop when bacteria spread into deep tissues and the bloodstream. Patients initially suffer from fever, muscle pain, and vomiting but symptoms can quickly turn life-threatening with low blood pressure, swelling, and multiple organ failure.
The STSS has a mortality rate of up to 30 percent. (PNA)
