The Department of Health (DOH) on Monday announced the total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the country is now 26,420 after 348 fresh cases and 142 late cases were reported.
There is also a surge in the count of recoveries at 6,252 after 298 more patients have recovered. The death toll rose to 1,098 with the passing of 10 patients.
The DOH admitted that there is an increase in the number of reported confirmed COVID-19 cases and fatalities within the past few days.
DOH Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire explained the increase is brought about by late reporting where results must still undergo validation process, and does not mean the COVID-19 situation of the country is getting worse.
The DOH also assured the country’s health system is prepared for the decision of President Rodrigo R. Duterte on the quarantine restrictions in various areas. Resources utilized for critical care are at 35 percent.
Meanwhile, the health department also reminded the public anew to make sure that antibody rapid tests kits are registered with the FDA, and that a test kit must first be validated by the Research Institute of Tropical Medicine (RITM) before it is sold in the market. The Deepblue COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) antibody test kits are among the uncertified and prohibited types.
As of June 11, around 150 COVID-19 test kits have been approved by the FDA including 56 PCR-based, 60 rapid antibody, 36 immunoassay, and three others. – Report from Mark Fetalco
