OCTA: COVID-19 cases could hit 11,000 by March end

OCTA Research projects that daily COVID-19 cases in the Philippines could reach 11,000 by the end of March.

This projection is based on an increased reproduction rate of 2.03.

While the outbreak initially concentrated in Pasay, Malabon, and Navotas, it has now spread to many areas in Metro Manila.

An OCTA Research fellow projected that COVID-19 intensive care unit (ICU) bed occupancy in Metro Manila could rise to 70% by the end of the month.

The Department of Health previously reported that 65% of COVID-19 ICU beds were occupied in the capital region.

Increased mobility and decreased compliance with health standards are identified as contributing factors to the current surge.

The surge is also being observed in provinces near the National Capital Region, including Rizal, Cavite, and Bulacan, and a slight uptick is noted in Cebu City.