The Department of Health (DOH) on Monday said that an increase in COVID-19 cases is being experienced across all age groups and not just among children.

The DOH further explained that there was an overall 59% increase in cases among all age groups during the period of  July 13 to 25 compared with July 26 to August 8. Additionally, among the age groups, the highest increase was observed among the 30-39 age group and lowest among those 80 years old and above during the same period.

“Naiintindihan po namin ang mga agam-agam at pangamba ng ating mga kababayan sa mga balitang lumalabas ngayon tungkol sa pagtaas ng kaso ng COVID-19 sa mga bata. Ngunit dapat ay liwanagan natin na itong pagtaas ng kaso ay nararamdaman sa lahat ng grupo at hindi lang sa mga bata,” said DOH Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire.

The Department also said that the COVID-19 national vaccination program is following priority groups to allocate COVID-19 vaccines to those who need them the most due to the global scarcity of vaccine supplies. As of August 7, the government has fully vaccinated 11.2 million individuals.

“Patuloy po ang aming panawagan sa mga eligible population groups na magpabakuna na. To all adults already eligible for vaccination, please register with your local government units for immediate vaccination while children are not yet being vaccinated. By vaccinating yourselves, you are also protecting the children as you will shield them from possible COVID-19 infection,” added USec. Vergeire.

In the end, the DOH reminded those eligible to get vaccinated to avail of the government’s free COVID-19 vaccination program to protect themselves and their families against COVID-19. Moreover, vaccinated individuals should continue to follow the minimum public health standards such as correctly wearing face masks and face shields, physical distancing, washing of hands, and ensuring proper ventilation.