Second wave? DOH-7 to decide by February

CEBU, Philippines — Is the spike in COVID-19 cases in Cebu City and Cebu province part of what is called the pandemic’s second wave?

The Department of Health in Central Visayas cannot answer this for now as it will still have to re-analyze data and wait until February 1. However, what is sure for now, according to the agency, is that the escalating numbers could be attributed to the post-holiday activities of the people.

“Atong makita based on our data nga rising gyud ang COVID-19 cases in Cebu City but epekto ni sa mga post-holiday activities. This cannot be a second wave yet,” said DOH-7 spokesperson Dr. Mary Jean Loreche.

Loreche explained that among the factors to be considered before a second wave may be declared are the continued rising of cases, case-fatality ratio, and hospital bed utilization for COVID-19 cases, among others.

DOH-7 data showed that as of January 22, Cebu City has a total of 749 active cases and 10,234 recovered cases for a total of 11,634 cases since the tally started last year.

Cebu City has been consistently recording double-digit new cases late December. The past few days, daily new cases hover at around over 40 to 60.

Loreche urged local government units to strictly implement the wearing of facemasks because it has been reportedly observed that many have not been doing so.

She said that those who fail to comply with this health protocol must be arrested by law enforcers.

DOH Secretary of Health Francisco Duque III said that in this time of pandemic, anyone’s action or inaction can spell the difference between saving a life or ending it.

“It is the little things that can stop the spread of disease--the proper wearing of a mask and face shield may be uncomfortable at times, but enduring a little discomfort can save lives,” said Duque in a press statement. — JMD (FREEMAN)