QC gov’t to conduct contact tracing, swab testing after Belmonte tests positive for COVID-19

The Quezon City Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit on Wednesday said it will conduct contact tracing and swab testing among the individuals who had direct contact with Mayor Joy Belmonte and two other employees who earlier tested positive for COVID-19.

QCESU head Dr. Rolly Cruz said the employees assigned at the third and 14th floors of the Quezon City Hall will be tested for COVID-19.

"Other people who had direct contact with the mayor and the two other employees, including visitors, will also undergo swab testing,” Cruz said.

Cruz added that employees who will be tested will need to undergo home quarantine until results are released as part of the protocol.

Results are expected to be released in three days, he said.

He also said various areas in the city hall will be disinfected, but operations will remain normal as not all employees came in direct contact with Belmonte in the past few days.

Meanwhile, Belmonte, who confirmed on Wednesday she tested positive for COVID-19 and was asymptomatic, will work from home but will still be on top of the health situation.

The city legal department also assured the public that Belmonte will continue to discharge her duties and functions as mayor even under quarantine through various alternative work arrangements.

“The honorable mayor exhibits none of the symptoms of COVID-19 and remains fully able and committed to serving the city and its constituents,” city Atty. Nino Casimiro said.

Earlier, Belmonte said she is strictly observing quarantine protocols set by the Department of Health.

Belmonte also said the development did not surprise her since she has been visiting health centers, hospitals and areas in the city that were placed under special concern lockdown due to COVID-19. — RSJ, GMA News