No 'new COVID-19 wave' in NCR —DOH

The Department of Health (DOH) on Thursday dismissed claims that there is a new COVID-19 wave in the National Capital Region (NCR) as it presented data showing that cases in the country actually dipped over the holiday period. 

According to the DOH, there were 3,147 new COVID-19 cases in the country, with an average daily case of 449 from December 26, 2023 to January 1, 2024. The DOH said that's a 10% drop from the 501 average daily cases logged from December 19 to 25, with 3,507 total cases.

It added that of the new cases, only 40 or 1.28% were serious or critically ill.

“Our data shows the continuous low transmission and mild presentation of COVID-19 locally,” DOH said in a statement. 

As for hospitals, the DOH said that the percentage of occupied intensive care unit (ICU) beds for COVID-19 patients remained “low" at 12% from November to December 2023. It peaked at 16% during this period.

The number of occupied non-ICU beds was also “low” at 19% at its highest, averaging at 17%. 

“Our data also shows a consistently low percentage of severe and critical cases among hospital admissions, currently at 11%,” DOH added. 

With this, the agency advised the public against rumors that there is a new COVID-19 wave in Metro Manila, stressing that there is no credible evidence or official announcement from health authorities regarding such. 

“The DOH urges the public to rely on information from reputable sources such as the agency and other official health organizations. Misinformation can contribute to unnecessary panic and fear.”

The DOH warned that criminal charges may be filed against responsible individuals if related information persists. —Giselle Ombay/ VAL, GMA Integrated News