The DOH has confirmed the entry of the more contagious COVID19 variant from the UK. A returning Filipino businessman test positive for the B.1.1.7. SARS-CoV-2 variant (UK variant). He arrived on January 7 aboard Emirates Flight No. EK 332 from United Arab Emirates (UAE). The 29-year old businessman left the country last December 27 and went to Dubai for business purposes. As part of the existing health protocols, he was tested at the airport and mandated to undergo a 14-day quarantine.
According to news report, the patient has pneumonia and currently taking medications. Contract tracing is now underway, particularly in Kamuning Quezon City, where the patient is residing. The DOH will also focus its effort in finding the patient's fellow passengers in Emirates Flight No. EK 332.
With the confirmation from the Department of Health (DOH) and the Philippine Genome Center (PGC), the Philippine government should be more vigilant in implementing health protocols in airports and close monitoring of other entry points in the country.
The B.1.1.7. SARS-CoV-2 variant replicates more than 2x, increasing its transmissibility.
Several countries have already imposed travel ban to travelers from countries with reported Covid19 UK variant.
