DOH: No hospital admission increase amid slightly up COVID-19 reproduction number in NCR

The slight increase of COVID-19 reproduction number in the National Capital Region (NCR) did not lead to any sustained increases in admissions, the Department of Health (DOH) said on Friday.

The DOH issued the statement after the independent monitoring group OCTA Research reported that the NCR’s reproduction number increased from 0.62 to 0.71, which moved the region’s classification to low risk from very low risk.

“Although there is an incremental increase in reproduction number (Rt) from 0.82 at the start of March 2022 to 1.03 last April 22, these were small and not sustained. Moreover, it is important to note that the reproduction number is just one of the metrics that is used by the department to monitor and assess the COVID-19 situation in the country,” the DOH said.

The reproduction rate refers to the number of people infected by one case. A reproduction number that is below one indicates that the transmission of the virus is slowing down.

“Such changes have not led to any sustained increases in admissions. Severe and critical contribution to admissions have likewise remained constant. Further, we have been able to maintain low total and ICU bed utilization rates,” the Health department added.

The DOH said that COVID-19 cases may rise if the minimum public health standards will not be properly observed and maintained.

The department also encouraged the public to get their COVID-19 booster dose to serve as protection against the viral disease.

“Immunocompromised individuals should also get their 2nd boosters at the soonest available time to ensure maximum protection against severe and critical symptoms caused by the virus,” it added.

Meanwhile, a total of 2,100 individuals were inoculated with second booster jab as of Tuesday, April 26.

The DOH said they shall wait for the recommendation of the Health Technological Assessment Council (HTAC) for the second booster of senior citizens and health workers, adding that to ensure “safety and efficacy” of the second booster for these individuals.–LDF, GMA News