DOH logs fewer COVID-19 cases during holidays

MANILA, Philippines — Only a few new COVID cases were recorded during the holidays, according to the Department of Health (DOH), as it denied reports that a new wave of the coronavirus was sweeping Metro Manila.

“From November to December, the percentage of occupied ICU beds for COVID cases remained low at 16 percent at its highest and averaged at 12 percent,” the DOH said in a statement.

The health agency said that during the same period, the number of occupied non-ICU beds for COVID cases was also low, at 19 percent at its highest, and averaged at 17 percent. It said a majority of the cases were mild.

“DOH data shows continuous low transmission and mild presentation of COVID locally,” the DOH said.

“Our data also shows a consistently low percentage of severe and critical cases among hospital admissions, currently at 11 percent,” it added.

The DOH said the low figures were achieved as Filipinos chose healthy behavior and heeded the call for multiple layers of protection – using face masks when needed, going to well-ventilated areas ad staying at home when ill,” the agency said.

Health officials also cited high vaccination coverage for the infections.

“Critical cases are minimized, because eight of every 10 eligible senior citizens are protected by a primary vaccine series.”

From Dec. 26, 2023 to Jan. 1, the DOH recorded 3,147 new cases.

The average number of new cases per day this week stood at 450, down 10 percent recorded from Dec. 19 to 25 with 501.

Of the new cases, only 40 or 1.28 percent were considered serious or critically ill.

Health officials said they would closely monitor the trend for any change.

“Everyone is reminded not to be complacent about COVID. We can gather and carry on with our activities, mindful always to choose well-ventilated and good airflow areas,” the DOH said.

The health agency warned the public against a false circulating message attributed to a doctor of St. Luke’s Medical Center that a new COID wave is affecting Metro Manila.

“There is no credible evidence or official announcement from health authorities supporting the assertion of a surge in COVID in St, Luke’s,” the DOH said.

It urged the public to source information only from legitimate sources and platforms such as the health department and other official health organizations.

“Misinformation can contribute to unnecessary panic and fear,” it said.