DOH: New COVID variants make up 7% of PH cases

At least 7% of COVID-19 cases in the Philippines are attributed to new coronavirus variants originating from the United Kingdom, South Africa, and Brazil, according to the Department of Health (DOH).

DOH Epidemiology Bureau Director Alethea de Guzman stated that these variants currently represent a small fraction of active cases, but warned of a potential 28-fold increase in infections if they reach 50% to 60% prevalence.

To combat the spread of these new variants, de Guzman emphasized the critical importance of consistently adhering to minimum public health standards.

These essential measures include the correct and consistent wearing of face masks that cover both the mouth and nose and fit snugly, frequent hand washing, and maintaining social distancing.