DOH: necklace air purifiers are not going to provide you with protection against COVID-19

According to the Department of Health, necklace air purifiers are not going to provide you with protection against COVID-19.

Photo from: Gov. Gwen Garcia's Facebook page

Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said on Monday that the use of necklace air purifiers "might lead to complacency or false security" after Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia issue a memorandum requiring public utility vehicle drivers are now required to have their own personal air purifiers and they should wear them at all times during the trip.

The Undersecretary even said in a media briefing that "Sana hindi na lang natin iton gamitin" which translates to "I hope we do not use it" as experts say that it is not going to provide you with protection.

Gwendolyn Garcia, a Governor, not a health expert or even a doctor, impemented the memorandum yesterday. However, CNN reported that several drivers were unable to comply due to insufficient supply. Many also canceled their trips in fear of getting apprehended. The drivers were given until August 25 to comply or they will be punished.

Chairperson of the Pinagkaisang Samahan ng mga Tsuper at Operator Nationwide (PISTON)-Cebu Chapter Greg Perez notes the item is something that transportation drivers and conductors would not afford especially now that earning is difficult for drivers.

If you will also notice, most wearable air purifier brands are not claiming that they are effective against the virus.

Personal air purifiers are effective for other purposes and there is no harm in using them, but the DOH is not recommending them due to the lack of evidence of efficacy.

The Cebu governor has yet to revoke the mandate.

Who would you believe, the Cebu governor or the health experts?

Via: CNN