24 Baragay Luz patients negative in reswab

CEBU, Philippines — About 24 of the 68 patients staying at the Barangay Luz’s isolation center have already tested negative of the virus.

Doctor Daisy Villa, city health officer, however, said that of the 68 tested, only 45 of the tests were read, wherein 24 turned out negative, while 21 still tested positive of COVID-19.

Villa said that they have also conducted swab testing in the community.

She added that they are now planning for the discharge of the patients with the coordination of the office of the mayor.

“Nag-plan na ta nga mag-discharge, nag-wait lang ta sa additional – out of 68 naa pa 23 kabuok na waiting for result,” said Villa.

She added that prior to the discharge of the patients, they will be given instructions to follow. And as per protocol, the patients will be examined by the doctors before being allowed for discharge.

The patients will also still be monitored for another 14 days.

Barangay Luz has close to 200 COVID-19 positive cases. Most of them are asymptomatic.

One of the patients who already tested negative said she was elated with the results.

“Ako, nalipay ko kay negative ang result sa akong re-swabbing. Pero naa puy uban namo diri nga nag-positive gihapon,” said one of the senior patients who is now COVID-free.

Patients who are now COVID-free, however, cannot celebrate just yet, as they cannot go home yet to their respective residences since there are new COVID cases at Sitio Zapatera, Barangay Luz.

“Di pa mi kauli, kay ang mga nag-positive didto wala pa man mabalhin diri,” the patient said.

While their stay has been extended, the patients who are now COVID-free are asking health authorities to separate them from those who are still positive.

“While naa pa gihapon mi diri, ang among hangyo lang gyud unta nga ang kaning mga nag-positive gihapon pag re-swab, ilahi lang silag isolate kay para di mi matakdag balik,” said the COVID-free patient.  GAN (FREEMAN)