COVID-19 Updates
SARS-CoV-2-bulletins
Detection of the D614G Variant of SARS-CoV-2 Virus in the Philippines
In contrast to the coronavirus collected in March, we now report the detection of the D614 variant among nine (9) randomly selected COVID-19 positive samples collected in Quezon City in July.
Three Possible Routes of SARS-CoV-2 infection in the Philippines
These findings highlight the need to continually review and improve the quarantine, testing and tracing measures being employed locally to adapt to the current pandemic situation.
23 newly reported genome sequences from the PH support previously hypothesized viral entry routes & waves of transmission
CFB gathered the publicly available sequences and incorporated them in a phylogenomic analysis together with previously reported sequence data from PGC and the RITM.
Newly reported variant in the United Kingdom has yet to be observed locally
In this bulletin, we present relevant information on the genetic changes found in the UK variant, as well as the results of our latest analysis focusing on locally observed spike protein mutations.
New Variants from UK and South Africa NOT detected in 305 local viral samples
The data presented in this report is part of our own continuing biosurveillance efforts to track the entry of these new variants in the country, as well as other viral mutations that may be of concern locally.
First case of the new variant under Lineage B.1.1.7 detected in the Philippines
Through the biosurveillance efforts of the UP – PGC, in coordination with the DOH – Epidemiology Bureau and the IATF Task Force on COVID-19 Variants, we report the first confirmed case of the SARS-CoV-2 B.1.1.7 lineage
Detection and characterization of a new SARS-CoV-2 lineage P.3, with spike protein mutations E484K, N501Y, P681H and LGV 141-143 deletion
Through the biosurveillance efforts of the PGC, NIH, and the DOH, a SARS-CoV-2 variant bearing multiple mutations of concern in the spike protein region has been first detected through whole genome sequencing at the PGC DNA Sequencing Core Facility.
Detection of the first 500 SARS-CoV-2 Omicron Variant in the Philippines
The Omicron variant was first identified in Botswana and South Africa, emerging at the tail end of the Delta surge. At present, cases of the Omicron variant continue to increase and have been reported in over 118 countries with over 496,000 sequences in the combined Omicron lineages shared in global databases.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Philippine Genome Center gears up to verify presence of 2019-nCoV through whole genome sequencing
With the use of Next Generation DNA/RNA Sequencing equipment, PGC is ready to verify the presence of 2019-nCoV through whole genome sequencing.
PGC to handle sequencing of COVID-19 03/16/2020
In our effort to continually protect the PGC skeletal workforce during this national health emergency, we are accepting Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) donations.
Temporary halt in accepting samples and requests for services to focus on assisting the UP-NIH with the kit validation and field testing
Halt in accepting all samples and requests for services starting March 16, 2020 until further notice.
PGC’s Clinical Genomics Laboratory certified to conduct testing for COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) by Real-Time PCR
PGC’s Clinical Genomics Laboratory completed and passed RITM’s proficiency testing for SARS-CoV-2 detection by Real-Time PCR. Thus certifying the lab to perform independent testing.
PGC Core Facility for Bioinformatics releases six (6) genome sequences of SARS-CoV-2 from Philippine samples between March 22-28, 2020
All the cases had no travel history outside the Philippines.
PGC COVID-19 Lab – Frequently Asked Questions
For COVID-19 test concerns, contact at 8981-8625 / 8981-8500 local 4713 or email clinicalgenomicslaboratory@up.edu.ph.
DNA Sequencing Core Facility resumes its services on July 1, 2020
Sample submission schedule (DROP OFF) PGC GF lobby, reception, Tues to Fri, 09:00 am – 02:00 pm
Give to UP hosts #PGCParaSaBayan donation campaign
PGC Para sa Bayan—aims to provide support for PGC’s COVID-19 Testing Laboratory and will facilitate the procurement of essential lab supplies, additional equipment, and/or other necessary costs related to testing.
PGC’s COVID-19 laboratory is a non-hospital based facility (NHB)
CGL accepts samples for testing and does not perform swabbing or swab collection.
PGC’s COVID-19 lab opens Drive-thru & On-foot Swabbing Operations
In addition to its mandated COVID-19 testing (RT-PCR) for PhilHealth covered patients, PGC CGL will open its Drive-thru & On-foot Swabbing Operations on Oct. 12, 2020
#PGCTalks to feature topics on COVID-19 testing, sequencing, and bioinformatics analysis
PGC is hosting a mini webinar series #PGCTalks featuring PGC experts and will cover topics on DNA sequencing, bioinformatics analysis, and testing related to COVID-19.
SARS-CoV-2 lineage P.3 first detected in the Philippines labeled as ‘Theta’ by WHO
The new nomenclature system will be easier for use by non-scientific audiences and non-stigmatizing to places where they were first detected.
More Information
Salin sa Filipinong mga terminolohiya kaugnay ng COVID-19
Gamit ang mga halaw na salita ni Prof. Eilene Narvaez, gumawa ang PGC ng mga ilustrasyon para sa mga terminolohiyang may kinalaman sa COVID-19.
Appreciation post for PGC Skeletal force, health workers, and all front liners #SalamatSaInyo
The genome center extends its appreciation and support to all front liners and health workers in general.
Steps in using the locally made rRT-PCR Detection Kit (GenAmplify)
Major steps in using the local rRT-PCR Detection Kit, general requirements in terms of equipment and supplies, as well as a step-by-step guide about testing.
COVID-19 Safety Tips & Precautions
PGC shares its COVID-19 laboratory safety tips and precautions.
Contact Exposure Algorithm
This algorithm may serve as reference for other communities, institutions, and/or offices with confirmed cases and for staff who have had potential exposure.
