By Mariela Angella Oladive
The Department of Health (DOH) has dismissed viral social media posts claiming a global health crisis involving human metapneumovirus infections, influenza A, and COVID-19 allegedly overwhelming hospitals and crematories in China.
In a public advisory issued Friday, January 3, the DOH clarified that neither China nor the World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed these reports.
“The Philippines, through the Department of Health (DOH), is an active participant in the network of WHO Member States that follow the International Health Regulations (IHR). This established system provides reliable updates about international health concerns,” the advisory stated.
The DOH assured the public that the country’s disease surveillance systems remain fully operational and that health authorities are actively verifying all related information.
The department urged the public to help combat misinformation, which can lead to unnecessary panic and confusion.
“Please do not share questionable websites or online sources. Let us not spread misinformation and confusion,” the advisory concluded.
For reliable updates on public health matters, the DOH encouraged citizens to follow official government websites and verified social media accounts.
