Metro Manila COVID-19 reproduction rate drops to 0.99

The COVID-19 reproduction number in Metro Manila has dropped to 0.99, a positive sign after the implementation of modified enhanced community quarantine (MECQ).

This figure indicates a decrease from the previously reported reproduction number of 1.90 before the ECQ.

OCTA Research fellow Dr. Guido David noted that the National Capital Region (NCR) has experienced two consecutive weeks of decreasing COVID-19 cases, with average daily cases now at 4,200 compared to 5,200 two weeks prior.

Despite the declining trend, OCTA Research is urging the government not to lift MECQ restrictions until the reproduction number is sustained below 0.9.

Fr. Nicanor Austriaco of OCTA Research explained that a reproduction number of 1 or higher signifies continued virus transmission and that the current situation remains unstable as not all local government units are showing decreasing cases.

He emphasized the need for the reproduction number to be less than 1 for several weeks to ensure sustained control over the virus spread.

Balancing the economy and public health remains a key consideration in decisions regarding quarantine levels.