DOH logs 12,426 new COVID-19 cases

The Department of Health (DOH) reported 12,426 new COVID-19 cases from May 15 to 21, with a daily average of 1,775 cases, a marginal rise of 0.01 percent from the previous week.

Of the new infections, 87 cases, or 0.70 percent, were classified as severe or critical, and there were 486 individuals admitted in severe or critical condition.

The DOH confirmed 13 additional deaths during the reporting period of May 8 to 21.

As of May 21, 389 of 2,134 intensive care unit (ICU) beds had been used, while 4,211 of 18,321 non-ICU beds were occupied.

Admissions in private hospitals have been increasing, with most cases being 'coincidental COVID' where patients tested positive after being admitted for other health issues.

The seven-day COVID-19 positivity rate in Metro Manila slightly rose to 25.7% on May 20 from 25.4% on May 13, exceeding the World Health Organization's 5% threshold.

The positivity rate in Isabela province significantly increased to 67.4% from 36.6%, while rates also rose in Camarines Sur and Quezon province.