The Department of Health earlier said it is assuming that the Omicron variant is already spreading in communities because of the sudden doubling of cases in the past few days.
Speaking to CNN Philippines’ News.PH, Bulacan Governor Daniel Fernando said the province’s active cases have climbed to 614. However, he noted that the majority, or 584, have symptoms mild enough to be treated at home.
This means only 30, or 5%, required hospitalization. Of this number, six are in the intensive care unit but none needed mechanical ventilation, the governor added.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, January 4) — Bulacan, Cavite, and Rizal will be placed under Alert Level 3 from Jan. 5 to 15 due to a “sharp increase” in COVID-19 cases in the three provinces, acting presidential spokesperson Karlo Nograles announced on Tuesday.
Fernando also said around 65% of the province’s population have received their coronavirus shots.
The move comes after Metro Manila reverted to the stricter Alert Level 3 amid a steady rise in coronavirus infections.
Under Alert Level 3, activities allowed under the current Alert Level 2 status — like face-to-face classes, contact sports, funfairs, live voice and wind instrument events — are prohibited.
Intrazonal and interzonal travel will be allowed subject to restrictions imposed by local governments.
Operational capacities in select establishments and tourist attractions will also be scaled down to 30% indoor and 50% outdoor venue capacity.
Gatherings for necrological services, wakes, inurnment, and funerals would still be allowed.
Operations of casinos are still prohibited. Gatherings in residences of individuals not belonging to the same household are also not allowed.
The Department of Health earlier said it is assuming that the Omicron variant is spreading in communities because of the sudden doubling of coronavirus cases in the past few days.
