DOH: Clearance of 1M capsules for prophylaxis expedited by FDA

MANILA: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has expedited the clearance of 1 million capsules of doxycycline, the Department of Health (DOH) said Friday. In a statement, Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa said FDA Director-General Samuel Zacate made the action during the Emergency Command Conference and the DOH has started delivery of the drug which is prescribed both as a prophylaxis and treatment for leptospirosis to all regions nationwide. "I have also instructed the emergency purchase of medicines for chronic conditions of evacuees, such as hypertension and diabetes, as well as for the other health conditions of people in evacuation. We will continue to provide health services to the people as directed by President Marcos," he said. The DOH regional directors have reported actions taken by the DOH and the local government physicians, nurses, midwives, barangay health workers and other health staff at evacuation centers. They continue to assess medical and public health service needs, distributing war m-cooked meals for proper nutrition and carrying out water, sanitation, hygiene, and waste disposal services. They also provide mental health and psychosocial support services for evacuees. President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. on Thursday instructed Herbosa to bring basic medical care to evacuation centers. Source: Philippines News Agency