DOH confirms local transmission of Delta variant in PH

The Department of Health (DOH) confirmed the local transmission of the highly contagious Delta variant of the COVID-19 virus in the Philippines.

This confirmation followed phylogenetic analysis by the University of the Philippines - Philippine Genome Center and case investigations that showed clusters of Delta variant cases linked to other local cases.

The country has detected a total of 12 new local cases of the highly transmissible variant, with the total number of Delta variant cases to be determined by further analysis.

The DOH has called for enhanced response in areas with new Delta variant detections and in other regions experiencing a rise in infections.

The government has initiated an enhanced COVID-19 response through the implementation of the four-door strategy, which involves strengthening border controls, implementing the PDITR strategy, and ensuring healthcare capacity for a possible surge.

The DOH reminded the public that correct and consistent compliance with minimum public health standards and vaccination are the best defense against any COVID-19 variant.