From 2 to 42: Sharp rise in Omicron variant cases in Western Visayas

From 2 to 42: Sharp rise in Omicron variant cases in WV
Glenda Tayona - January 28, 2022 https://www.panaynews.net/from-2-to-42-sharp-rise-in-omicron-variant-cas...

ILOILO City –From an initial two confirmed cases early this month, Western Visayas now has 42 coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infections caused by the Omicron variant of the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

Thirty of these were local cases / transmissions while 12 were returning overseas Filipinos (ROFs) including the first two cases in the region detected early this month – one in Iloilo City (a 46 year-old seafarer) and the other in Bacolod City (a 38-year old cruise ship crew).

Due to its quick transmissibility, the Omicron has been called a variant of concern by the World Health Organization (WHO).

According to the Department of Health (DOH) Region 6, the 42 cases were in the following areas:

* Capiz – 14 local
* Iloilo City – 12 local, five ROFs
* Iloilo province – two local, one ROF
* Guimaras – one local, one ROF
* Aklan – one local, one ROF
* Negros Occidental – three ROF
* Bacolod City – one ROF

Early findings suggest that there is a reduced risk of hospitalization for Omicron compared to the Delta variant. But WHO warns that it should not be dismissed as “mild”.

Increased transmission is expected to lead to more hospitalizations. That increase causes strain on frontline workers and healthcare systems, which in turn can result in more deaths.

The 14 local cases in Capiz all recovered.

In Iloilo City, 15 recovered, too.

The status of the other cases was unknown. DOH-6 did not have such data but vowed to coordinate with local government units.

DOH-6 urged the people to complete their COVID-19 vaccination and get additional protection from booster shots, especially the elderly and those with comorbidities.

“The vaccines being provided by the government are proven safe and effective in preventing hospitalization, even death,” it stressed.

To date, the total number (nationwide) of confirmed Omicron variant cases is 1,153, according to DOH central office. Of these, there were five deaths.

DOH urged the public to follow protective health protocols and adhere to minimum public health standards./PN