THE local government of Quezon City has issued a red alert in light of the increasing number of COVID-19 cases in the area.
Records show that the daily average cases for the week of December 4–7 are 27, which is 57.9% higher compared to the previous week, while the average positivity rate based on tests conducted is 14.55%.
In addition, the average daily attack rate per 100,000 population is .85, and the reproduction number is expected to reach 1.
As of December 7, 2023, there were 186 active COVID-19 cases recorded in the city.
In June last year, the QC Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit (QCESU) devised an early warning system to monitor cases, analyze trends, and recommend necessary measures to prevent outbreaks.
”Based on the parameters of this system and the current COVID-19 data, the red status alert is currently being raised since the growth rate has breached 50% and the average positivity rate is beyond 5,” the Quezon City government said in a press release on Saturday.
QCESU Chief Dr. Rolando Cruz attributed the rise in cases to get-togethers and parties this Christmas season and relaxed COVID-19 restrictions.
“We have seen in the past years, during the height of the pandemic, that holiday seasons really attract more cases. Since the chilly weather can also affect the immunity of our people, we would like to remind our QCitizens to remain vigilant, especially for COVID-like symptoms such as cough, colds, and fever,” Cruz said.
Mayor Joy Belmonte, meanwhile, urged the public to wear masks in outdoor spaces and stay indoors when experiencing symptoms.
