Manila, Philippines – January 3, 2020 – The Department of Health (DOH) today moved to quell rising public anxiety over circulating social media posts alleging a declared state of emergency in China due to a viral outbreak. DOH Spokesperson and Officer-in-Charge Assistant Secretary, Dr. Albert Domingo, categorically stated that these claims are currently unsubstantiated by reliable sources, including the purported country of origin and the World Health Organization (WHO). He urged the public to exercise caution and refrain from sharing unverified information online, emphasizing the importance of relying on credible sources to avoid the spread of misinformation and unnecessary panic.
Dr. Domingo underscored the Philippines’ active participation in the WHO’s International Health Regulations (IHR) framework, a globally recognized system for monitoring and addressing international health emergencies. This network, he explained, provides official and trustworthy updates regarding potential health threats, ensuring a coordinated and evidence-based response. He reassured the public that the DOH diligently monitors and verifies emerging information through this established system and remains committed to keeping the Filipino people informed through official channels.
The DOH spokesperson further emphasized that the Philippines maintains robust disease surveillance systems, readily equipped to detect and respond to potential outbreaks. He stressed that these systems are actively functioning and continuously monitoring the health landscape, providing an additional layer of security against potential health threats. This statement aimed to instill confidence in the public regarding the country’s preparedness and capacity to address emerging infectious diseases.
This clarification from the DOH comes at a time of increasing global interconnectedness, where the rapid spread of information, both accurate and inaccurate, can significantly impact public perception and behavior. The incident highlights the crucial role of public health authorities in verifying information and communicating transparently with the public to prevent unnecessary alarm and ensure evidence-based decision-making.
The DOH’s proactive approach in addressing these rumors demonstrates the department’s commitment to responsible information dissemination and its recognition of the potential consequences of unchecked misinformation. By emphasizing the importance of verified sources and highlighting the Philippines’ active engagement with the WHO’s IHR framework, the DOH aims to build public trust and foster a culture of informed decision-making in matters of public health.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of critical thinking and responsible online behavior. In an era of readily accessible information, it is crucial for individuals to verify the source of information before sharing it, especially when it pertains to public health. The DOH’s call for vigilance and reliance on official channels underscores the collective responsibility in maintaining a well-informed and resilient community in the face of potential health threats. By working together and relying on credible information, we can mitigate the spread of misinformation and ensure a more measured and effective response to any emerging health challenges. The DOH remains committed to providing timely and accurate updates as information becomes available.