The health authorities performed a new sequencing reaction for 16 preselected samples out of 219 confirmed by molecular-genetic biology techniques. As a result, there were identified 16 cases determined exclusively by the Omicron variant. The samples were picked during August 29 – September 12, IPN reports.
According to the National Public Health Agency, seven samples were determined by the Omicron sublineage BA.5.2, which frequently circulates in the United States (18%), the UK (13%) and that was also met for the first time in South Africa. Three samples were determined by the Omicron sublineage BA.5.2.1, which circulates in the U.S. (39%). The other cases were determined by other modifications of the Omicron variant (BA.2, BF.5, BF.7, BA.5.1, BA.4.6).
The samples come from different administrative territories. The health authorities recommend the citizens to continue to get vaccinated as this is the only safe and efficient method for preventing serious cases of infection and death from COVID-19. The National Public Health Agency said all the vaccines are efficient against the new variants of the virus.
