TRAVELERS ADVISED TO WEAR FACE MASKS AMID NEW VIRUS THREAT

TRAVELERS on Friday were advised by the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) to wear face masks while inside the airport to protect themselves from Streptococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome (STSS), a virus that was first reported in Japan.

MIAA is the operator of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).

According to MIAA spokesman Chris Bendijo, aside from face masks, passengers were also advised to sanitize their hands, and urged to cover their mouths and noses when coughing or sneezing.

Japan is facing an STSS outbreak, with reports indicating that it was rapidly spreading throughout the country.

As of June 2, 2024, Japan has experienced a rise in STSS cases, with 977 reported, marking a notable increase from previous years.

Early symptoms include fever and chills, muscle aches, nausea and vomiting.

Reports also indicated that 24 to 48 hours after the onset of initial symptoms, more may emerge, including low blood pressure, organ failure, an elevated heart rate, rapid breathing, and tissue necrosis.

Bendijo said the MIAA was in constant communication with the Department of Health (DoH) through the Bureau of Quarantine (BoQ) regarding the monitoring of passengers arriving from other countries.

He said they also requested the BoQ to provide updates on its monitoring of virus cases to prevent the spread of the infection.

At the moment, the DoH does not view STSS as a public health concern.