Epidemiologist raises concern over potential rise of Covid-19 variants in NCR and Region 7

the Department of health (DOH) on Friday reported additional B1351 (South Africa) variant cases, 31 B117 (UK) variant cases and 42 cases with mutations of“potential clinical significance.”

the DOH said that the additional cases were detected from the 9th batch of 350 samples sequenced by the Up-philippine Genome center (UP-PGC).

in a Kapihan session with health reporters, Dr. John Wong of epimetrics inc., an epidemiologist working with the government’s inter-agency task Force for emerging infectious Diseases, said that these additional cases of variant could be “alarming.”

Although Dr. Wong noted that samples are continuously being collected and the extent of the variants are yet to be determined, the number of cases is already something to be “concerned” about.

“People should do more...before the hospitals get overwhelmed,” Dr. Wong said as he encouraged the public to strictly adhere to the minimum public health standards to prevent the increase in cases.

Genome sequencing

the genome samples came from the National capital Region (NCR), Region 7, and returning overseas Filipinos (ROFS) in response to the increased number of cases in these areas.

Of the 52 cases who tested positive for the B1351 variant, 41 have indicative addresses in NCR, while 11 cases are being verified if these are local cases or ROFS.

One case from NCR has recovered, while the remaining 51 cases are currently tagged as active and are being managed.

On the other hand, 28 of the B117 cases also have indicative addresses in NCR, while three cases are being verified if these are local cases or ROFS. All 31 are active cases.

Lastly, of the 42 cases with mutations of potential clinical significance, 34 have indicative addresses in Region 7, six have indicative addresses in NCR, and two cases are being verified if these are local cases or ROFS.

these are cases found with N501Y and e484k mutations.

twenty-two of the 34 cases from Region 7 have so far recovered.

Meanwhile, the remaining 12 Region 7 cases, all 6 NCR cases, and both cases being verified are tagged as active cases.

the DOH and its concerned centers for health Development is coordinating with the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority and local government units in NCR and Region 7 to institute measures to contain further transmission of these variants and mutations.

Lastly, everyone is reminded of their individual responsibilities to follow the minimum public health standards at all times and in all settings.

the conscious effort of properly wearing a mask and face shield, and observing physical distancing will keep you and everyone around you protected from covid-19.