PH's Quezon City mayor urges calm as COVID-19 cases rise, says all infections mild and 'no need to panic'

PHILIPPINES: PH’s Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte has moved to reassure residents following a notable uptick in COVID-19 cases in the city over the past three weeks, stressing that all reported infections remain mild and isolated and that there is no cause for alarm.

According to the Philippine News Agency (PNA), data from the Quezon City Epidemiology and Surveillance Division (QCESD) showed that confirmed cases rose to 84 between June 11 and July 1, which is a significant jump from the 23 cases recorded in the preceding period from May 21 to June 10. Since January, the city has recorded a total of 146 confirmed COVID-19 cases through its proactive surveillance system, which collects reports from hospitals and health centres across the city.

“Not seeing any clustering of cases”

Belmonte was measured in her response, framing the increase in the context of the city’s overall population size and the nature of the infections recorded.

“While there has been an increase in cases, they still represent a very small percentage of our total population. We are not seeing any clustering of cases, and all reported infections have been mild and isolated,” she was quoted as saying by the PNA.

She added that the City Health Department would continue to provide appropriate medical interventions through its health centres and hospitals for residents experiencing symptoms, while encouraging continued vigilance without panic.

Most patients were reported to have experienced influenza-like symptoms, including fever, cough, and cold, which led them to seek medical attention. They subsequently tested positive for COVID-19 under standard health protocols.

Part of a broader Metro Manila trend

The city government also noted that the uptick in cases is not unique to Quezon City, with other Metro Manila cities having recorded a similar increase in COVID-19 cases over the same period, suggesting a wider community circulation rather than a localised outbreak.

Samples are being submitted to the Department of Health for genome sequencing to identify the COVID-19 variant currently circulating, with results expected to inform the city’s ongoing response.

Free testing and consultations available

Belmonte reminded residents that the city’s 66 health centres continue to offer free medical consultations, COVID-19 testing where indicated, and medicines for symptomatic patients, reducing barriers to early detection and care.

Health officials have urged residents to continue practising basic preventive measures: wearing face masks when sick or in crowded places, maintaining proper hand hygiene, and consulting a healthcare professional if influenza-like symptoms develop.

“The best thing we can do is seek medical attention early if symptoms develop and continue practising simple preventive measures that protect ourselves and those around us,” Belmonte stated.