The Department of Health (DOH) on Monday urged Filipinos with mild to moderate symptoms of coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) staying at home to make use of teleconsultations to prevent worsening of their conditions.

Every sickness starts mildly and doctors, even over the phone or online, can guide patients on what to do, advised DOH Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said during a digital media forum.

“Covid-19 starts with cough and fever. As soon as you experience the symptoms, of course, you isolate, make use of the telemedicine providers, so that doctors can guide you on what you’re supposed to do,” she said.

Vergeire also sympathized with patients who began with mild to moderate Covid-19 indications but died in their homes.

“Mahirap talaga ang sitwasyon natin ngayon (Our situation is really difficult), challenged tayo (we’re challenged) that we cannot easily go to the hospital and have our assessment because our hospitals are very busy right now,” she said.

The DOH has partnered with six telemedicine providers for free services. The contact details are posted on the DOH website and social media accounts.

The public is also advised to contact Barangay Health Emergency Response Teams.

“It is also handy na mayroon po tayong pulse oximeter sa bahay natin. Ito po ay isang maliit na instrument na kinakabit sa ating daliri, at name-measure po ang oxygen level sa ating katawan (for us to have a pulse oximeter at home. It is a small instrument attached to the forefinger to determine the body’s oxygen level),” Vergeire said.

“Kapag ang oxygen level ay (If the oxygen level is) below 90 already, you need to seek consultation from a higher-level facility like a hospital,” she added. (PNA)