Covid-19 - BA.2 |29 March 2022

‘Samples collected, results awaited’ – MoH

There is a rising concern over the new omicron subvariant of the virus that causes Covid-19, BA.2. Seychelles NATION contacted the Ministry of Health to have an update of the situation and we have been told that “samples have been collected and results are being awaited”.

According to scientists around the world, BA.2 is the latest subvariant of omicron, the dominant strain of the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes Covid-19. While the origin of BA.2 is still unclear, it has quickly become the dominant strain in many countries, including India, Denmark and South Africa. It is continuing to spread in Europe, Asia and many parts of the world.

The omicron variant, officially known as B.1.1.529, of SARS-CoV-2 has three main subvariants in its lineage: BA.1, BA.2 and BA.3. The earliest omicron subvariant to be detected, BA.1, was first reported in November 2021 in South Africa. While scientists believe that all the subvariants may have emerged around the same time, BA.1 was predominantly responsible for the winter surge of infections in the Northern Hemisphere in 2021.

Covid-19 update

As of yesterday, Seychelles has recorded 318 active cases with 164 deaths – Mahé has 262 active cases, Praslin 38 cases and La Digue 18 cases. This shows an increase of 82 more cases compared to two weeks ago. The moving average is 35 per day compared to 26 two weeks ago. The rate of infection is showing a gradual upward trend.

To prevent further increase or a surge in cases that would necessitate re-introduction of restrictive measures, people must step up individual preventive efforts and behave responsibly, the Ministry of Health advises.

“Any gathering are opportunities for spread, especially where preventive measures are not practiced. Vaccination remains a valuable tool in the combat of Covid-19. Do get vaccinated with your primary doses and booster as soon as you are eligible,” said the notice from the MoH.

Vidya Gappy