Belize confirms presence of Omicron BA.5 subvariant
The Ministry of Health in Belize has confirmed the presence of the Omicron BA.5 subvariant.
Recent genomic sequencing of 40 samples dated between June 1 to 28, 2022, has confirmed that 100 per cent of the samples with the Omicron variant. Thirty-nine models were confirmed as the BA.2 subvariant (97.5 per cent), and one sample (2.5 per cent) was established as BA.5.
The BA.4 and BA.5 are the predominant subvariants circulating in the United States and globally. Persons with these subvariants present varying symptoms, ranging from runny nose, sore throat, headache, tiredness, cough, body aches and fever.
The ministry says there remains significant evidence that vaccines protect against severe disease and death from COVID-19. Some research has shown that the BA.4 and BA.5 subvariants may evade the protection of “neutralising antibodies” from previous infection and vaccination by three to four times more than prior variants and subvariants.
The public is reminded to continue protecting vulnerable populations such as the elderly, pregnant women and persons with underlying medical conditions.
The Ministry of Health & Wellness recommends getting vaccinated and for persons to continue to utilise a well-fitted face mask, especially in crowded indoor areas, and practice regular hand washing and sanitisation.
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