2,196 COVID Cases Tallied as More Countries Prepare for the New Normal

The Philippines on Thursday logged 2,196 new COVID-19 cases as more countries further relaxed restrictions to live a new normal with the virus.

Active cases stood at 66,588. The Department of Health reported 4,409 new recoveries and 107 deaths, 

Overall, a total of 3,646,793 COVID-19 cases have been reported since the pandemic began in March 2020, of which 3,524,875 have recovered and 55,330 died.

Alert Level 2 in Metro Manila is extended until the end of February. Alert Level 1, the lowest set of restrictions, could be declared once certain indicators are met.

Some countries, mostly located in Europe, have started or announced plans to drop wearing of face masks and physical distancing as they seek to return to normal like after two years under a pandemic. Spain will allow 100% capacity for sports grounds, provided that fans wear masks at all times.

Vietnam also eased travel restrictions and will welcome fully vaccinated tourists in March, the first time in two years.

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