THE Department of Health (DoH) reminded everyone to avoid holding karaoke parties during the holiday season as it may increase the risk of coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) transmission.
Citing the Aerosol Science and Technological Journal, Health Secretary Francisco Duque 3rd said aerosol droplets that can cause viral infection increase by 448 percent in persons who yell or sing as opposed to normal talking.
Duque added that instead of holding holiday parties, the public is urged to have a more “solemn celebration with joyful Christmas songs from our favorite artists played on radios or online music platforms,”
“Hinihiling ko po sa inyong lahat na iwasan muna natin ngayong Kapaskuhan ang mga karaoke parties at mga malalaking salu-salo para tuluyang makaiwas sa virus at mapigilan ang lalong pagkalat nito. Munting sakripiso lang po ito para sa kaligtasan natin sa pagdirwang ngayong Pasko (I urge everyone to avoid holding karaoke parties and large gatherings this Christmas so that we can avoid the virus and control its transmission. It is just a small sacrifice for your safety during the Christmas holidays),” Duque said.
He also urged local government officials to strictly enforce and implement minimum health standards in their areas during the season.