We are bringing you another informative and endowing issue of the UP Manila Healthscape! 

With the continuing surge in COVID-19 cases of which a considerable number are caused by the highly infectious Delta variant, this issue features updated expert-guided recommendations and policies on vaccination, prevention, and management of COVID- 19 cases that were driven by the said variant. The requirements for home care isolation for adults and children are also included.

The recommendations were presented by Health Undersecretary and spokesperson Dr. Rosario Vergeire, infections disease specialist Dr. Anna Lisa Ong-Lim, and health social scientist Dr. Nina Castillo-Carandang during a townhall meeting conducted by the Department of Health.

A welcome and encouraging development for hearing-impaired patients is the full restoration of the services of the PGH Ear Unit effective January 2021. To ensure protection and in compliance with guidelines, services are now strictly by appointment and transactions are done through the window. Observing strict protocols on wearing mask and face shield, hand hygiene and physical distancing is required while disinfectable engineering controls were installed for added protection.

No words are enough to capture the legacies and contributions of UP Regent Nelia Gonzales to the country and UP during the past 70 years. Being a steadfast ally and supporter of UP Manila and most of its officials, the tribute to “Tita” Nelia rekindled her generosity, remarkability, and multi-faceted qualities as a woman, UP alumna, and agriculturist/social entrepreneur.

Completing this issue are the articles on the UP Manila Ugnayan ng Pahinungod-St Paul Manila University Community Pantry that benefitted 3,500 beneficiaries from several barangays, including the families of PGH patients, and the first virtual teambuilding of the UP Manila Central Administration employees.

The article on the risks from the inhalable ash from the Mayon Volcanic eruption in 2018 urges us to be vigilant and prepared for the hazards of the eruption activities of Taal Volcano. 

Featured in the UP Manila Healthscape (Special COVID-19 Issue No. 30, August 2021)