Metro Manila’s COVID-19 cases up by 25% in one week — Octa Research

MANILA, Philippines — Weekly COVID-19 infections in Metro Manila have increased by 25%, independent pandemic monitor Octa Research Group said Monday.

Dr. Guido David said the one-week average of 1,033 cases per day in Metro Manila from July 18 to 24  is 25% higher than the average of 829 daily cases recorded from July 11 to 17.

He, however, clarified that while the number of cases continues to increase, the rate of increase remains moderate.

“The one-week growth rate in the NCR has remained relatively flat for over three weeks. This means that while cases continue to rise, the rate of increase is moderate,” Octa said.

Meanwhile, the reproduction number is at 1.38, and the positivity rate in the region is at 14.1%.

“NCR (National Capital Region) is at moderate risk based on the metrics we use, but the bright spot is the HCUR (healthcare utilization rate) remains below 50%,” David said in a Twitter post.

NCR new cases continue to increase. One week growth rate was 25%, reproduction number at 1.38, positivity rate at 14.1% and ADAR at 7.17. HCUR remained low at 33.1%. NCR is at moderate risk based on the metrics we use, but the bright spot is that HCUR remains below 50%. pic.twitter.com/1xbTBWDE6a

— Dr. Guido David (@iamguidodavid) July 25, 2022

According to Octa, COVID-19 cases in Metro Manila have not yet reached their peak since the number of infections continues to rise.

READ: COVID-19 cases in Metro Manila may have already peaked, says OCTA Research fellow

“With a flat growth rate, it is not clear at this time when the peak in cases in the NCR will occur,” Octa said.

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