No new wave of COVID in Metro – DOH

THE Department of Health (DOH) yesterday said cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) throughout the country have remained low even during the recent holiday season, as it belied circulating information that Metro Manila is experiencing a new wave of the illness.

In a public advisory, the DOH said there is no truth to the viral statement being attributed to a doctor from a private hospital that there is a new COVID-19 wave in the National Capital Region (NCR).

“There is no credible evidence or official announcement from health authorities supporting the assertion of a surge in COVID-19 cases at the mentioned hospital,” said the DOH, as it stressed that the public should first countercheck with authorized individuals any statement from alternative sources of information, or else they’ll fall victim to fake news.

“We urge the public to rely on information from reputable sources, such as the agency and other official health organizations. Misinformation can contribute to unnecessary panic and fear,” it said.

Contrary to the circulating message, the health department said that COVID-19 cases have remained low during the holidays despite fears of a surge due to public gatherings during the season.

The DOH noted that the average number of new COVID-19 cases per day for the week of December 26, 2023 to January 1, 2024 was only at 449, which is lower by 10 percent compared to cases from December 19 to 25, which stood at 501.

“Our data shows the continuous low transmission and mild presentation of COVID-19 locally,” said the DOH in a separate statement.

It said this is due to Filipinos choosing to practice healthy behaviors, such as using face masks when needed, going to well-ventilated areas, and staying at home when ill.

“We also have high COVID-19 vaccination coverage,” it added.