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| DOH graphic now highlights the number of active cases, instead of the overall figure |
The number of coronavirus cases in the Philippines
It was the second highest daily tally so far, after a record
2,434 cases were reported yesterday.
The newly reported cases comprise 1,258 “fresh” cases –
where the test results were released to patients in the last three days – and 841
late cases.
Six more fatalities were reported, raising the death toll to
1,303.
There were also 243 new recoveries, bringing the total
number to 12,185.
For the first time, the DOH highlighted the total number of
active cases, now at 32,845, instead of the total number of cases, as was the norm
previously.
But unofficial tally shows that as of yesterday, the total
number of positive cases identified has already risen to 57,973, out of a total
of 783,358 individuals tested, for a positivity rate of 7.4 %.
DOH Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said the recent
spike in cases was the result of the easing of restrictions in many areas,
including Metro Manila, which remains the epicenter of the outbreak.
She said that the basic quarantine rule was to stay home,
regardless of the level of restrictions in the placed where you live.
She also called on the public to observe basic health
protocols such as physical distancing, wearing of mask in public and frequent
hand washing.
Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque, meanwhile said that
the government would have no choice but to lock down more areas again if the
infections continue to increase.
“Pag lumala talaga at mawalan tayo ng critical care capacity
o kaya yung doubling rate ay bumalik sa dating napakabilis, wala po tayong
alternatibo.” Roque said.
(If the situation worsens and we run out of critical case
capacity or the case doubling rate picks up again, we will have no choice
<but to re-impose lockdowns>”
The spike in new infections comes just as the country is
pressed to restart the economy after being on lockdown for more than three
months.
