NCR Covid-19 positivity rate up due to holidays: OCTA

MANILA – The Covid-19 positivity rate in the National Capital Region (NCR) increased slightly over the past few days at 0.77 for the period of December 16 to 22, the OCTA Research Group said Friday.

In its latest report, the group noted that the region’s positivity rate was lowest at 0.62 for the period of December 12 to 18.

“This uptick in positivity rate may be dismissed as merely an effect of the holidays. On the other hand, this could also be the beginning of a change in the trend,” OCTA said.

However, it said a clear picture of the situation would not be seen until the first week of January 2022 due to decreased testing over the holiday season.

In a tweet, OCTA fellow Dr. Guido David said the holiday uptick may be due to the increased number of social gatherings.

“This is not a cause of panic, but we must continue to follow public health standards while enjoying the holidays,” he added. “We will re-evaluate the situation in one to two weeks.”