Seven months since the novel coronavirus was first detected in the Philippines, Batanes today announced that it recorded its first-ever COVID-19 case.
The provincial government said the asymptomatic patient is a 29-year-old returning resident who tested positive for the virus yesterday. The patient arrived in Batanes on Sept. 22.
While not displaying symptoms, the patient is undergoing strict observation and isolation at The Batanes Resort in Basco.
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All identified close contacts of the infected patient and other locally stranded individuals traveling to Batanes are being monitored by the province’s coronavirus task force.
“We remind everyone to continuously observe minimum public health standards such as wearing of face masks and face shields, observe physical distancing and practice proper hygiene,” it said.
The Philippines’ smallest and northernmost province is home to less than 20,000 people. Despite being a beloved tourist destination known for its untouched rock formations and rolling hills, entry into Batanes is limited due to its sea and weather conditions. It’s also the only measles-free province in the country.
As of Monday, the Philippines has 307,288 confirmed COVID-19 cases, with 5,381 deaths, and 252,665 recoveries.
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