By Alec Go
The reproduction number of COVID-19 in the National Capital Region has increased, the latest report of the OCTA Research showed.
Based on the report shared by Prof. Guido David on Twitter, the reproduction number, or average infections from a confirmed case, of 0.62 for April 14 to 20 rose to 0.71 for the week of April 21 to 27.
This brings the region’s category for reproduction number to low risk from the previous category of very low risk. The group said “all other indicators still at very low” risk, including the weekly average daily attack rate, positivity rate, healthcare utilization, and intensive care unit level.
NCR metrics for April 27, 2022 compared with previous week. Reproduction number increased from 0.62 to 0.71 moving NCR to LOW RISK from VERY LOW RISK. All other indicators still at VERY LOW. @dzbb @dzrhnews @DZAR1026 @allangatus @ali_sotto @NewsRmn @News5PH @dwiz882 @PhilstarNews pic.twitter.com/jBhJ1k3jJt
— Dr. Guido David (@iamguidodavid) April 28, 2022
In an April 27 statement, the Department of Health (DOH) assured continuous monitoring of case trends across the country, including the reproduction number which is among the metrics used by the DOH in assessing COVID-19 situation.
“Although there is an incremental increase in reproduction number (Rt) from 0.82 at the start of March 2022 to 1.03 last April 22, these were small and not sustained,” the DOH said.
“Such changes have not led to any sustained increases in admissions. Severe and critical contribution to admissions have likewise remained constant. Further, we have been able to maintain low total and ICU bed utilization rates,” it added.
Moreover, it urged the public to remain compliant to the minimum public health standards to prevent another increase in reported COVID-19 cases, and to avail of vaccine doses for further “protection against severe and critical symptoms caused by the virus.” –ngs
