Emphasises the need for all countries to step up surveillance, to be on alert and rapidly detect any importation and take measures to curtail further spread of the virus
India has registered two cases of Omicron variant in the state of Karnataka recently. Dr Poonam Khetrapal Singh, Regional Director, WHO South-East Asia Region while talking about the new variant provided her opinion on the precautionary measures to be adopted.
According to Dr Khetrapal Singh, the confirmation of the Omicron variant of concern by India, the first two cases in the WHO South-East Asia Region, was not unexpected in view of the interconnected world that we live in. This emphasises the need for all countries to step up surveillance, to be on alert and rapidly detect any importation and take measures to curtail further spread of the virus. The response measures for all variants, including Omicron, is the same as those for SARs CoV2. Comprehensive and tailored public health and social measures by governments, and strict adherence to preventive and precautionary measures by individuals, is a must.
Dr Khetrapal Singh went on to add, “People must wear well-fitting mask which covers their nose and mouth well, keep distance, avoid poorly ventilated or crowded spaces, keep hands clean, cover cough and sneeze and get vaccinated. And continue to take all precautionary measures even after getting vaccinated. All travellers must adhere to public health and social measures at all times and remain vigilant for signs and symptoms of COVID-19.”
She added, “Omicron variant has a large number of mutations, some of which are concerning. Researchers around the world are conducting studies to better understand the transmissibility, severity and immune escape capabilities of Omicron. WHO commends countries which have been able to quickly detect and report cases of the new variant of concern.”
