DOH: Positivity rate not enough to gauge PH Covid status

The Department of Health (DOH) has emphasized that the positivity rate alone is not sufficient to assess the country's COVID-19 situation, as other indicators play a crucial role in understanding infection trends.

With a shift in testing protocols focusing on symptomatic individuals, an increase in the positivity rate is anticipated because those tested are more likely to be positive.

The DOH suggests prioritizing hospital utilization rates and monitoring admissions as more significant metrics for evaluating the COVID-19 situation.

The department also stressed the importance of other protective measures, including mask-wearing based on individual risk assessment, isolation when sick, and ensuring vaccination with primary series and boosters.

This statement from the DOH comes after OCTA Research fellow Dr. Guido David projected that the National Capital Region's positivity rate could rise to 25% from its current 19.7%.