A 37.69 percent increase in the number of coronavirus disease (Covid-19) cases have been recorded in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) since October 7.
Dr. Ruby Constantino, director of the Department of Health (DOH)-Cordillera, said the increase in number of cases in the country's Summer Capital is due to effective contact tracing by the local government unit.
"As of October 22, 2020, the confirmed cases in the region is now at 2,798 confirmed to the 2,032 cases recorded last October 7, having a 37.69 percent increase in the number of conformed cases. The recorded deaths at present is at 31, having a case fatality rate of 1.11 percent. We now have a total of 1,937 recoveries, having a recovery rate of 69.23 percent," Constantino reported.
The prevalence rate in the region increased at 155 per 100,000 population with a positivity rate of 2.53 percent among the population tested.
"The case doubling time based on the database is now at 18.05 days, which is now moving quicker compared to that on October 7. On the critical care utilization rate in the region, Cordillera recorded 65.12 percent, which is still considered at moderate risk, with males as the most infected than females and out of the total number of cases in CAR, 813 are still admitted but are in stable condition, while 14 severe and three critical cases are under close monitoring and observation," Constantino added.
Despite the increasing cases, DOH-CAR assured support to Baguio City in opening its doors to tourists, stating this is a measure aimed to revive the region's economy.
"DOH have signified its support to the gradual reopening of local industries to lifting travel restrictions by allowing the entry of tourists and visitors. This is a necessary step for economic revival. We expect cases to definitely increase which is why various policies and guidelines have been cascaded to LGU's and health care facilities to strengthen the local health care system and maximize utilization of our critical care," Constantino added.
The region is set to organize its Cordillera One Hospital Command Center that will function as an effective and efficient Covid-19 referral conduit between the different health facilities in the region.