Geneva, Switzerland - Swiss authorities have confirmed fifteen new coronavirus cases, of which three (3) patients reside in Geneva, and two (2) patients reside in Vaud, as of 28 February 2020. 

In this regard, the Philippine Mission to the UN and other International Organizations in Geneva and the Philippine Consulate General, Geneva ask the Filipino communities in Geneva and Vaud to follow advice given by your healthcare provider, your national and local public health authority or your employer on how to protect yourself and others from COVID-19.

Swiss authorities have taken unprecedented measures to slow the spread of COVID-19, including issuing a ban on large gatherings and public events that gather more than 1,000 people together in the same place.  The ban takes immediate effect and will stay in place at least until March 15, in response to the coronavirus threat.

The ban affects sports events across the country and has prompted the organizers of the Geneva Motor show to cancel the event scheduled for next week.  There are currently no travel restrictions for entry into Switzerland, according to the Federal Office of Public Health.  New measures would be considered if authorities had the impression that virus transmission was not under control. 

According to the Swiss Federal Government, “cantonal and federal authorities are taking all necessary measures to prevent the virus from spreading to others. This includes identifying people that the infected individuals may have come into contact with and monitoring their condition in quarantine over the next 14 days.  In view of the rising number of confirmed cases around the world, and particularly in northern Italy, it is likely that further cases will occur in Switzerland. The medical services are well prepared to identify and deal with suspected cases and treat further patients.”

We advise kababayans to seek information from reliable and trusted sources, including the World Health Organization.  Regular updates and information on basic health measures may be found at: https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/advice-for-public.  END.