Recent data from the Department of Health (DoH) has revealed a concerning 36 percent increase in Covid-19 cases in parts of Metro Manila and nearby areas. As a result, the DoH is urging the public to adhere to the minimum public health standards under Alert Level 1. This advisory comes as an average of 269 new cases were reported from December 5 to 11, 2023, in at least five areas, up from 191 cases from November 28 to December 4.
Quezon City, Manila City, Makati City, Cavite, and Rizal are among the areas that have seen a surge in new cases. In the last 14 days, Quezon City recorded 334 new cases, followed by Manila City with 154, Makati City with 145, Cavite with 137, and Rizal with 131.
Nationwide, a total of 1,821 new cases were recorded as of December 11, with 13 of them classified as severe or critical. The DoH’s Covid-19 tracker reveals that Quezon City currently has the highest number of cases among cities and provinces nationwide, with 278,331 cases. Cavite follows closely with 245,170 cases, while Laguna has 183,119 cases. Manila and Rizal have recorded 165,258 and 161,084 cases, respectively. Overall, there have been 4,127,769 Covid-19 cases in the country, with 3,813 currently active.
The DoH emphasizes the importance of not becoming complacent in the face of the ongoing threat of Covid-19. They stress the need to continue adhering to the minimum public health standards of Alert Level 1. Additionally, the DoH recommends considering the use of a booster to further protect against the virus.
Under Alert Level 1, all establishments, individuals, and activities are allowed to operate or be undertaken at full capacity, as long as they comply with the minimum public health standards. This level of alert permits a return to a semblance of normalcy while prioritizing public health.
Regarding healthcare facilities, the DoH reports that out of the total 1,298 ICU beds for Covid-19 patients, 176, or 13.6 percent, are currently occupied. Furthermore, 1,833, or 16.5 percent, of the 11,111 non-ICU Covid-19 beds are in use as of December 10.
Vaccination progress in the country has been significant, with over 78 million individuals, surpassing the target, having received their Covid-19 vaccinations. Additionally, 23 million individuals have received booster shots to enhance their immunity.
With the Christmas season approaching, Manila Mayor Maria Sheila “Honey” Lacuna-Pangan advises residents to remain vigilant and continue wearing masks in places of convergence. Despite the lifting of the health emergency status, the mayor emphasizes that Covid-19 is still present. Recent infections among high-profile government personalities, including President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., serve as a reminder of the ongoing risk.
Mayor Lacuna-Pangan appeals particularly to those with comorbidities or in the senior age group, who are more vulnerable to infection. While gatherings during the holidays are inevitable, she urges individuals to exercise caution, wear face masks, maintain proper hand hygiene, and seek well-ventilated areas. Individuals displaying Covid-19 symptoms should isolate themselves immediately.
In conclusion, the rise in Covid-19 cases in parts of Metro Manila and nearby areas necessitates a renewed commitment to public health measures. By adhering to the minimum public health standards and considering the use of boosters, individuals can play their part in mitigating the spread of the virus and protecting themselves and their communities.
Source: The Manila Times
