DOH, UP-PGC, and UP-NIH detect more COVID-19 variants in ongoing biosurveillance

The Department of Health (DOH), the University of the Philippines – Philippine Genome Center (UP-PGC), and the University of the Philippines – National Institutes of Health (UP-NIH) report the detection of additional cases of two Delta (B.1.617.2) variant cases, 132 Alpha (B.1.1.7) variant cases, 119 Beta (B.1.351) variant cases, and three Theta (P.3) variant cases, based on the latest whole genome sequencing report.

On Delta variant cases

The two new Delta variant cases are returning overseas Filipinos (ROFs) with travel history from Saudi Arabia. Both arrived in the Philippines on May 29, 2021 and have completed the requisite 10-day isolation period. They have been discharged from the quarantine facility after being tagged as recovered. 

On Alpha variant cases

Of the additional 132 Alpha variant cases detected, 125 are local cases, one is an ROF, and six are being verified as to whether these are local or ROF cases. Based on the case line list, 15 cases have died and 117 have recovered. The Alpha variant cases now total 1,217.

On Beta variant cases

Of the additional 119 Beta variant cases detected, 111 are local cases, two are ROFs, and six cases are being verified as to whether these are local or ROF cases. Based on the case line list, three cases are currently active, 104 have recovered, and 12 have died. The total Beta variant cases are now 1,386.

On Theta variant cases

The additional three Theta variant cases are local cases and have already been tagged as recovered. 

Currently, the Theta variant is not identified as a variant of concern (VOC) since more data is needed to conclude whether the variant will have significant public health implications.

The DOH reminds all fully vaccinated individuals to continue following the prescribed minimum public health standards to ensure that transmission of COVID-19 is minimized. Mass gatherings are especially discouraged, regardless of vaccination status, as these are the main drivers of outbreaks among unvaccinated persons in countries with relatively high vaccination rates.

The DOH is also committed to working closely with all stakeholders to ensure that border control measures are strictly implemented.  (DOH) – jlo