Manileños told stay vigilant over virus

Let us continue to wear masks and observe social distancing. The number of cases in Metro Manila continues to rise. Maybe, we have just forgotten that Covid-19 is still very much in our communities

With the reported increase in the number of coronavirus (Covid) infections in the city as compared to last month, Manila Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso warned Manileños not to let their guards down against the virus.

In his weekly Facebook Live broadcast, the mayor said as of Friday, 26 February, the city recorded 61 new cases raising the total number of active cases to 437.

“You will notice that there has been a slight increase in the number of infections… I am just reminding you that you are too glad that we have pushed down the number of cases and you have forgotten to observe physical distancing and the wearing of masks. Please don’t, dear friends,” Domagoso said.

He reported that based on statistics gathered by the city government, 60 percent of the total positive cases are asymptomatic or do not show symptoms, such as coughing and fever.

He said the 60 percent increase was significant compared to the 23 to 25 percent registered asymptomatic cases in the past. So far, a total of 804 deaths have been reported.

“Maybe you have already relaxed. Please, don’t. Let us continue to wear masks and observe social distancing. The number of cases in Metro Manila continues to rise. Maybe, we have just forgotten that Covid-19 is still very much in our communities,” he added.

The mayor also called on Manilans not to be impatient, saying the vaccines are forthcoming and that he and Vice Mayor Honey Lacuna are doing everything possible to have the vaccines at the soonest possible time.

As of Friday, 26 February, 85 of the 305 total Covid bed capacity in the six city-run hospitals are currently occupied.

Owing to the 28 percent occupancy rate, the mayor stressed the need to still be very cautious against infection.

Meanwhile, 165 persons tested positive out of 1,375 persons who were recently swabbed in their homes via the city government’s mobile clinic that makes the rounds of areas that are reported to have Covid cases by their barangay leaders.

He said he wants Manileños to be duly informed about the Covid situation in the city, saying the rise in the number of cases is not unique to Manila and Metro Manila. In fact, it is occurring in the entire country.