FILE PHOTO: A 3D-printed coronavirus model is seen in front of a world map and the words “CoronaVirus Disease (Covid-19)” on display in this illustration taken March 25, 2020. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration/File Photo
MANILA, Philippines — After the detection of more COVID-19 Omicron variant cases, the Department of Health (DOH) on Friday warned the public that daily cases in the country in the next days or weeks may increase “exponentially.”
“In the coming days/weeks, there is high probability of exponential growth with continued decreased adherence to MPHS and the detection of local cases with omicron variant,” said the DOH.
This came after the DOH earlier announced the detection of 3 local cases of the Omicron variant of concern and 7 more imported cases of the said variant. This means the country now has 14 confirmed cases of the Omicron variant, which is feared to be more transmissible than even the Delta variant.
“The epidemiological investigation on the 3 local cases indicates there is a high possibility of local transmission,” warned the DOH.
“Moreover, breakthrough infections caused by the omicron variant have been documented among the vaccinated and boosted, although mostly mild or asymptomatic,” it added.
According to the DOH, the biggest challenge now is keeping hospitals open for the sickest patients, especially now that hospitals are also preoccupied with caring for non-COVID cases.
“In view of this, we request everyone to work together to avoid being unnecessarily admitted and occupying beds that may benefit those who really need it,” said DOH.
The DOH then urged the public to do the following:
Get yourself vaccinated or boosted, ASAP.
Layering up protection by using a surgical mask, double masking, or pairing up your cloth mask with a face shield, avoiding crowded places, and keeping to your family bubble.
Isolating early if symptomatic, getting the right test at the right time, and finishing the prescribed duration.
Doing home isolation supported by teleconsultation, when resources permit
RELATED STORIES
NCR under Alert Level 3 from Jan. 3 to Jan. 15 — Palace