The Philippines on Wednesday logged 889 COVID-19 infections bringing the number of active cases beyond the 10,000 mark before the year-end holidays.
The day's tally doubles December's usual daily case count within the 300 to 400 range. It brought active cases to 10,418, with a total of 214 new recoveries and 28 new deaths reported.
Overall, a total of 2,839,790 COVID-19 cases have been reported since the pandemic began in March 2020, of which 2,778,131 have recovered and 51,241 died.
According to the World Health Organization, the Omicron variant poses high risks despite reports of asymptomatic to mild cases. What it may lack in severity compared to the Delta variant is made up for in its transmissibility.
"Consistent evidence shows that the Omicron variant has a growth advantage over the Delta variant with a doubling time of two to three days and rapid increases in the incidence of cases is seen in a number of countries," the United Nations health agency said.
Though daily cases are on the decline, strict observance of health must be implemented to prevent a spike in infections. Gatherings should be minimized, buffets should be skipped if possible, and unvaccinated children are encouraged to meet loved ones virtually to reduce risk of infections.
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