Two new cases of Zika virus have been confirmed by the Department of Health (DOH) Friday, bringing the number of cases to 19.

Speaking at the sidelines of the first National Summit on Zika virus, Health Undersecretary Gerardo Bayugo said the two Zika cases came from Cavite.

These cases, he noted, involve one child and an elderly. He said they have been discharged from the hospital.

As Zika cases continue rising, the health department said it is boosting capabilities to prevent the virus’ spread and detect suspected patients.

Bayugo said the steps include buying Zika pregnancy packages and purchase of additional Real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction test kits.

“A total of P16.5 million is provided by the DOH for the procurement of Real-time PCR test to the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine and other sub-national laboratories,” said Bayugo.

He said P40 million is for the procurement of Zika pregnancy package, which will be distributed to identified Zika hotspot areas.

“This package will include three bottles of insect repellent, one single treated bed net, and two brochures which will contain information on Zika,” said Bayugo.

The department said they have established hotlines (02) 711-1001 or (02) 711-1002) for people who may need help. DMS