COVID-19 positive cases now 396 and 33 deaths
MANILA – The Department of Health today reported a spike in COVID-19 positive cases to 396 and deaths reaching 33 as of midday today.
Eighteen patients have also been reported to have recovered from the illness.
Secretary Duque said he was tested negative for COVID-19 but will remain under quarantine until Wednesday, March 25. Asked why test results take time, he admitted the process is a bit complicated and tedious.
In a radio interview over DZMM, Secretary Duque said it may take days before a person would know whether he has acquired the virus or not.
“It is a complicated process, but the RITM can now process 600 specimens per day,” he added. He underscored the need for more polymerase chain reaction machines and the strict observance of biosafety laboratory safety standards.
He assured his audience the waiting time would be reduced as other government hospitals have been capacitated to handle tests. He said private hospitals are also getting recognized to handle the surge of tests from Persons Under Investigation or PUIs. (Melo M. Acuña)
Health Secretary Francisco T. Duque III (File photo)
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