The OCTA Research Group believes that the increase in COVID-19 cases has accelerated due to the United Kingdom and South African variants of the virus being discovered in the country.
“Hindi na ito uptick, this is a serious increase. Noong holiday mabagal, nag-increase ang mobility, may pandemic fatigue na ‘yong mga tao, nakikita natin possiblity, driven ito ng variant, kasi yung rate of infection mas mabilis pa ngayon kaysa noong December at July to August last year, mas mataas ‘yong reproduction,” said Guido David, a fellow of the OCTA Research, which consists of professors who conduct data studies of COVID-19 cases.
According to David, it is possible that there will be 5,000 to 6,000 COVID-19 cases per day before the end of March.
Although the economy needs to recover, David stressed that the government should re-examine protocols when it comes to international and local travel as well as the opening of establishments that allow drinking and videoke.
“Sana may checks pa rin tayo at ma-control ang pagkalat ng virus sa iba’t ibang lugar,” said David.
The Philippine General Hospital (PGH), a COVID-19 referral facility in Metro Manila, is already feeling the effects of the resurgence of cases.
On Saturday, PGH Spokesperson Dr. Jonas del Rosario that the number of admissions continues to increase.
Variants accelerate virus transmission: OCTA Research
He said the hospital recorded 105 COVID-19 cases, the highest in the past 4 months.
In addition, 15 health care workers of PGH had COVID-19 in the first 4 days of March.
It was also found from the Philippine Genome Center that one in 30 samples from PGH tested positive for the South African variant.
As a result, walk-in patients in the outpatient department of PGH were temporarily banned.
The rotation of medical clerks and interns, as well as elective surgical procedures, were also suspended to prevent the spread of the virus.
All eligible staff is also encouraged to be vaccinated with COVID-19.
Health workers appealed to the public that even with the vaccine, minimum health protocols such as the proper wearing of face masks and shields, physical distancing, and avoiding crowded places and social gatherings should be followed as much as possible.
OCTA Research is also studying the possibility that new COVID-19 variants are more contagious in ages 14 and under after recording new cases in minors.