The Department of Health (DOH) on Wednesday hasannounced the total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the country reached 19,748 after 221 fresh cases and 530 late cases were reported.
The recovery tally also increased to 4,153 after 90 more patients were added to the list. The death toll rose to 974 after eight patients died.
The DOH disclosed that as of June 2, the critical care utilization rate (CCUR) for ICU beds is at 35 percent and 18 percent for mechanical ventilators.
DOH Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire explained that a low CCUR is one indication of the improving COVID-19 situation in the country since ICU beds and mechanical ventilators are not totally used.
Vergeire said CCUR shows the capability of the healthcare system in handling the number of patients in need of a higher type of management and if more resources are required.
UP-Manila Associate Dean for Research of College of Public Health said out of the population of COVID-19 patients, five percent require intensive care.
In keeping with the World Health Organization’s declaration that June 3 is World Bicycle Day, the health department expressed support on the use of bicycles as an alternative mode of transportation. Bike access loops for hospitals have been proposed to ensure the safety of health workers and other cyclists. – Report from Mark Fetalco
