The Department of Health (DOH) on Wednesday reported 16 additional positive COVID-19 cases, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in the country to 49.
Based on the report, all new cases are Filipinos and mostly males. Some are in their 20s, but the oldest is an 88-year-old male. All of them have been admitted to various hospitals.
DOH ASec. Maria Rosario Vergeire said three of the new cases in the country are in critical condition.
“DOH is continuously monitoring the statuses of all patients to ensure that no complications arise throughout their recovery,” Vergeire said.
Vergeire also announced that 442 out of 445 repatriates from the MV Diamond Princess Cruise Ship have been releases from their 14-day quarantine in New Clark City.
However, two crew members (patients 25 and 26) have tested positive for the disease and were immediately sent to a referral hospital.
“Close contacts of the two confirmed cases shall undergo additional 14-day home quarantine and will be continuously monitored by their respective municipalit or city health offices. The remaining repatriate is left in NCC awaiting lab results,” Vergeire said.
The Medical City has clarified that its epidemic rapid response team, as well as its entire hospital staff, will remain open to all patients within the facility capacity. The Medical City in Ortigas, Pasic City, currently has eight confirmed cases of COVID-19 under its care.
Meanwhile, Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said the Office of the President has been “closely monitoring the developments” of COVID-19 in the country and that is already come to their attention that “some hospitals are experiencing overcrowding.”
The health department also reported that a total of 96 overseas Filipinos have tested positive for COVID-19, in which 30 have been admitted and that 64 already recovered and been discharged. – Report from Mark Fetalco
