16 UK variant detected in the Philippines, 13 in Cordillera

Baguio, Philippines– Of the 16 newly detected B.1.1.7 variant cases in the Philippines, 13 are from the Cordillera Administrative Region.

According to the Department of Health, 12 are detected in Bontoc, Mountain Province wherein 7 are male while 5 are female. Additionally, 3 of these cases are minors and 3 are senior citizens.

These cases’ exposure and travel histories are still under investigation.

Meanwhile, aside from the 12 UK variant cases, One case for Cordillera was detected in La Trinidad, Benguet. The patient has no known contact to any confirmed case nor has a travel history outside Philippines. The individual is currently admitted at a Benguet Temporary Treatment and Monitoring Facility.

With the detection of Covid-19 UK variant in Bontoc and La Trinindad, Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong now safely assumes that the variant is in the city, Baguio – PIO reported. Thus, reiterating appeal on the strict compliance to health protocols especially the proper wearing of face masks and face shields.

Meantime, as of 7:30pm of January 22, there is a total of 1,693 total active cases in the Cordillera. 518 are in Baguio City; 384 in Benguet; 370 in Kalinga; 277 in Mountain Province; 112 in Ifugao; 27 in Apayao; and 5 in Abra.