Chief Medical Officer, Dr. the Most Honourable Kenneth George, recently expressed the Ministry of Health and Wellness’ commitment to implementing local variant testing as the incidence of respiratory illness was increasing. At the time, the Chief Medical Officer indicated that Influenza A and B and COVID-19 were among the circulating viruses. He also stated that the Best dos Santos Public Health Laboratory had the capacity to test for many of the new respiratory viruses and strains of COVID-19 that were in circulation.
In this regard, the Ministry of Health and Wellness is informing the public that test results have revealed the newest strain of COVID-19, the JN1 (a sub-variant of Omicron) has been detected. The public is reminded that although COVID-19 is no longer a disease of international public health concern, transmission of the virus has not stopped. Therefore, the Ministry continues to test and monitor for COVID-19 strains and report to public as necessary.
The Chief Medical Officer emphasised that the mask mandate has not been reintroduced. However, the usual precautionary measures for preventing the spread of respiratory illness should be taken into consideration, particularly by vulnerable persons such as the elderly, pregnant women and persons living with chronic non-communicable diseases. In these situations, frequent hand washing, respiratory etiquette and wearing of masks are proven methods to reduce transmission.
The Ministry of Health and Wellness reassures the public of its intention to remain steadfast in its efforts to advise on COVID-19 developments, as it remains dedicated to safeguarding public health. (PR/GIS)
