City records single-digit COVID-19 cases for 7 days

CEBU, Philippines — Cebu City has dropped back into single-digit daily COVID-19 case counts for a week now.

“The new infections have remained in the single digits for consecutive days already,” the city’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC) said.

EOC reported a downward trend in new infections after cases spiked to double digits most of the month of November.

The highest recorded in a day was on November 14 at 59 cases.

But authorities said the city could only claim victory in the COVID-19 battle if reported daily cases were in the single digits for months.

In the Department of Health-VII’s December 4 case bulletin, Cebu City has 203 total active cases, including four new ones.

The active cases have lessened after registering 23 new recoveries.

The city, however, reported one new death.

EOC also boosted its contact tracing and testing up to the second generation contacts in an effort to contain the virus.

Best gift

Meanwhile, staying at home with the family this Christmas season is the best gift one can give, said health secretary Francisco Duque.

“The virus is very much around and is still among us, and no one can be sure who the virus carrier is. Don’t bring home the virus. Please stay at home for a merrier and healthier Christmas. After all, a COVID-free holiday is one of the best gifts we can give to our loved ones,” he said.

Duque said going out, visiting relatives and friends, and attending family reunions are possible sources of infection as one cannot ascertain the exposure of and health status of other people.

“Celebrating the holidays during this pandemic is no exception to maintaining our caution. In fact, with the holidays upon us, we have more reason to be careful and cautious as the usual practices during these times pose a much greater risk of contracting COVID-19. We all need to find safer ways to celebrate this season without compromising our health and the health of our loved ones,” said Duque.

As early as October, the DOH had already issued  Department Circular No. 2020-0355 which is the COVID-19 risk-mitigation measures during the holidays and this includes limiting the number of people in social gatherings, and avoid activities that may include traveling, especially to and from areas with different quarantine classifications.

Instead, Duque has suggested anew the use of digital platforms to keep in touch with relatives “for a safer and healthier Christmas.”

“We can still have a meaningful Christmas even if we stay at home and reconnect with our friends and families online,” he said. —KQD (FREEMAN)