DOH issues new guidelines on indoor ventilation

MANILA, Philippines — Pending international and local studies on airborne transmission of COVID-19, the Department of Health (DOH) has issued new guidelines on proper ventilation in indoor or enclosed spaces.

Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said the new protocol, which will be added to the existing minimum health standards, entails the adjustment of ventilation systems in these places to ward off the virus.

“While there is still no conclusive evidence of airborne transmission of COVID-19, we recommended that to be sure there should be proper ventilation in enclosed spaces like workplaces, comfort room and vehicles,” she said.

Vergeire noted that the new guidance would be included in the “non-pharmaceutical interventions” against COVID-19. The other interventions against COVID are hand washing or disinfection, wearing of masks and observation of physical distancing.

DOH Memorandum 0429, which Secretary Francisco Duque III issued on Oct. 8, recommended the conduct of activities primarily in “open air spaces.”

“When an activity cannot be moved into an open air setting, opening windows and doors should be put into practice to facilitate the flow of outdoor air into the space when possible,” the memorandum read in part.

It also said that “device settings that encourage re-circulated air where no ventilation takes places should be avoided as much as possible.”

The DOH underscored that “individuals should not be situated directly in the flow of air coming from fans and air-conditioners,” warning that electric fans and air-conditioning units may facilitate transmission of the virus “if it directs air from infected individuals to others in the room.”

“When toilets are used, it is advised to close the toilet seat lid while flushing if available.  This aims to minimize the release of droplets into air flows after flushing,” it said.

The agency also recommends “natural ventilation and access to open air” when in vehicles.

“Avoid using the re-circulated air option for the car’s ventilation during passenger transport. Utilize car vents to bring in fresh outside air and/or lower the vehicle windows,” the DOH added.