The Department of Health (DOH) on Wednesday announced the total number of COVID-19 cases in the country has reached 13,221 with 9,447 active cases after 279 new ones were reported. 89 more patients have recovered today, adding up to the total 2,932 while the death toll has increased to 842 after five patients expired.
Meanwhile, epidemiologist Dr. John Wong explained that a rise and fall in cases comprise a wave in an outbreak. He said a small wave was seen in the Philippines in January when three Chinese nationals tested positive for the virus. The wave weakened afterwards but toward the end of March, the first major wave or second wave started when the DOH recorded 538 new cases within one day.
Currently, there are just around 220 cases being recorded which is also brought about by the implementation of the enhanced community quarantine.
Wong said we are now in the lower part of the second wave, and are trying to prevent the occurrence of a third wave with the easing off of lockdown restrictions in the country. The DOH disclosed the curve will continue to flatten through the decrease in cases and by strengthening the capacity of the country’s health system. It also reminded the public to remain alert as the threat of COVID-19 still exists. – Report from Mark Fetalco
