421 COVID Infections Logged as DOH Monitors Uptick in Cases

The Philippines on Tuesday logged 421 COVID-19 infections as authorities monitor an uptick in cases in the run up to the New Year.

The day's tally brought active cases to 9,750, with a total of 248 new recoveries and two new deaths reported.

Overall, a total of 2,839,111 COVID-19 cases have been reported since the pandemic began in March 2020, of which 2,778,148 have recovered and 51,213 died.

According to the Department of Health, the positivity rate increased to 1.3% in the week of Dec. 19 from 0.9% in the week of Dec. 12. This means that for every 100 tests, at least one person turns out positive.

The spread of the virus is "under control" as long as the positivity rate stays below 5%, according to the World Health Organization.

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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