The number of workers at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) who tested positive for coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) has reached 60, almost 100 percent increase 10 days after Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) general manager Ed Monreal confirmed 32 positive cases.
On Friday, the MIAA reported that as of July 23, there are 41 active cases, while 19 have already recovered.
MIAA Media Affairs Division head, Jess Martinez, said these figures only consist of MIAA’s permanent employees, as well as its service providers.
A 24/7 Covid-19 hotline 3187 was launched on Friday, a dedicated extension for the employees and service providers for their queries. Those who possibly had exposure to the virus may also be reported via the hotline.
The MIAA, meanwhile, targets to provide free rapid antibody tests for Covid-19 to more than 6,000 workers at the NAIA. This started last July 22, and will be provided again on Saturday, and twice or thrice a week within the next weeks.
Martinez earlier said the rapid antibody tests were a donation and is not compulsory to the employees.
Those who would test positive for Covid-19 would immediately undergo the RT-PCR (reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction) test, he added.
Out of the 294 who took the rapid antibody test on Wednesday, 11 have tested positive and went home to undergo quarantine while waiting for their RT-PCR test result.
The Authority has been reiterating its advice to observe safety and precautionary measures, such as frequent hand washing, disinfection, and observance of social distancing. (PNA)