NCR positivity rate up to 14% as cases may reach 2,000 on New Year’s Eve

CNN – Published Dec 31, 2021 6:40:33 AM

The OCTA Research group said the National Capital Region’s positivity rate has reached 14%, with over 2,000 new COVID-19 cases being projected Friday, New Year’s Eve.

The group’s fellow Guido David said in a tweet that new infections in Metro Manila “will likely continue to increase” given the positivity rate recorded, which is already above the World Health Organization’s standard of 5%.

He noted that new infections may reach more than 2,500 nationwide on what is the last day of the year.

“The rate of increase is dramatic, and we should really comply strictly with minimum public health standards and reduce social and mass gatherings,” Guido emphasized.

The independent group already raised the risk level of Metro Manila from “very low risk” to “moderate risk” due to the increasing number of new cases, positivity rate, and reproduction number.

OCTA has recommended increasing restrictions for minors and the unvaccinated next month as COVID-19 cases are expected to further increase amid the holiday season.

The Philippines will remain under Alert Level 2 until January 15 despite the slight rise in infections and the threat of the Omicron variant, the Malacañang said.

SOURCE: https://cnnphilippines.com/news/2021/12/31/Metro-Manila-COVID-19-positivity-rate-New-Year-Eve.html