NEW coronavirus disease (COVID-19) cases in the past seven days totaled 1,465 for a daily average just above 200, according to the Department of Health.
In its latest bulletin, the DOH said the latest total was “lower by 12 percent than cases reported from April 11 to 17.”
The DOH said the daily average for the past week stood at 209 while 213 more lost their battle against the deadly virus.
The DOH also reported there are currently 726 severe and critical cases in the country as of April 24, with 479 of them occupying ICU beds.
The number of occupied ICU beds account for the 16.9 percent of the 2,841 total nationwide.
On the other hand, there were 4,112 COVID-19 patients occupying COVID-19 beds. This is 16.9 percent of the 24,309 total COVID-19 beds allocated nationwide.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Medical Association noted an increase in hospital admittance of COVID patients the past week, emphasizing the importance of being vaccinated and getting booster shots.
Philippine Medical Association President Dr. Benito Atienza, during the Laging Handa public briefing, did not provide figures but said the DOH had been reporting about the increase in active cases, especially in Metro Manila.
“The DOH said there are new cases of COVID patients being admitted. There are a few but it is higher compared to our normal number of admissions. That is why we need to continue to be cautious,” Atienza said.
Atienza and vaccine expert panel member Rontgene Solante reiterated the need to continue to follow protocols, like wearing face masks and being vaccinated or getting booster shots.
DOH data showed more than 67 million individuals or 74.98 percent are fully vaccinated while 12.9 million had received booster shots. — With Jocelyn Montemayor
