The Department of Health (DOH) on Tuesday, May 21, reminded all healthcare professionals to accurately and immediately report positive Covid-19 cases to help guide public health in decision-making.

“It is important to note that by law, doctors, their clinics, hospitals, and other facilities are required to accurately and immediately report cases of Covid-19, whether tested by PCR or rapid antigen test,” the department said.

Despite the slight increase in reported cases compared to May 12, DOH pointed out that the country remains at low risk, with no need for travel restrictions.

Among the new cases, only seven were classified as severe or critical with five deaths reported within the past two weeks from April 30 to May 13.

In terms of hospital capacity, only 11 percent of dedicated Covid-19 ICU beds are currently occupied and only 13 percent of dedicated non-ICU beds are utilized.

In total, 116 severe and critical Covid-19 cases have been admitted nationwide based on hospital reports received through the DOH Data Collect application.

New Variants Under Monitoring (VUM)

Meanwhile, the World Health Organization (WHO) also reported on May 17, that there are three new Variants Under Monitoring (VUM): JN.1.18, KP.2, and KP.3.

These variants are descendants of JN.1 and are known informally as “FLiRT” due to specific amino acid changes in the virus' spike protein.

According to the WHO update, there is no reported evidence of these variants causing “severe or critical disease” locally or internationally, providing no basis for travel restrictions globally.

However, DOH noted that "further assessment is needed to determine transmissibility and capacity to evade immune response."

To mitigate the spread, the health department advised following tried and tested methods such as good respiratory hygiene such as covering coughs, frequent hand washing, ensuring proper airflow and ventilation in spaces, staying home when feeling ill and properly wearing a mask if necessary.

"The voluntary use of face masks should be done properly, along with standard precautions like hand washing, and avoiding crowds," it added.