MANILA -- The Department of Health (DOH), the University of the Philippines - Philippine Genome Center (UP-PGC), and the University of the Philippines - National Institutes of Health (UP-NIH) report that 29 new cases of the Omicron (B.1.1.529) variant of concern were detected from the 48 samples sequenced last January 2, 2022.

Aside from these 29 Omicron cases, there were 18 positive for the Delta (B.1.617.2) variant while one had no lineage assigned. The latest sequencing run was composed of samples from 19 Returning Overseas Filipinos (ROFs) and 29 local cases from areas with case clusters.

OMICRON VARIANT CASES:

The 29 Omicron variant cases are composed of 10 ROFs and 19 local cases with indicated addresses in the National Capital Region, bringing the total number of confirmed Omicron variant cases to 43.

Of the 19 local cases, 14 cases are still active, three cases have been tagged as recovered, while there are two cases whose outcome are still being verified.

The DOH is verifying the test results and health status of all passengers of these flights to determine if there are other confirmed cases or passengers who became symptomatic after arrival. Travelers who have arrived in the Philippines through these flights may call the DOH COVID-19 Hotlines at (02) 8942 6843 or 1555, or their respective LGUs to report their status.

DELTA VARIANT CASES:

Of the additional 18 Delta variant cases, 8 were ROFs. The ten local cases also had NCR as their indicated address.

This update brings the total number of confirmed Delta variant cases to 8,497.

The DOH strongly encourages eligible individuals, especially our senior citizens, those with comorbidities, and children to get vaccinated and boosted immediately. Vaccines are still our best defense and proven to be safe, effective, and free. Let’s not be agents of transmission and prevent further spread of the virus as more transmission means more mutations. At the earliest signs of symptoms, remember to  isolate immediately and do the right test at the right time. Finally, let us maximize our telemedicine services and keep our hospitals from filling-up. You may access these services at bit.ly.DOHTelemedicine. Let’s keep our guards on for Omicron. (DOH))