Second case of BA. 5 variant of Omicron confirmed in Telangana
According to the data released from WHO, BA. 4 or BA. 5 spread is now rapid. However, the cases are mostly asymptomatic and milder than other sub-variants of Omicron.
Hyderabad: The second case of the BA. 5 sub-variant of Omicron has been confirmed by the Covid-19 genomic sequencing in Telangana.
As per the data, after May 15, 56% of the samples tested are only of the BA. 2 variant. BA. 4, and BA. 5 were confirmed in May.
With the rapid spread of BA. 4 and BA. 5 variants across the world, the state government and experts warn of Covid appropriate behaviour.
Keeping in view the surge in cases, health minister Harish Rao instructed health personnel and government hospitals to ramp up testing. During a recent held review meeting, he asked people to obey Covid rules including social distancing and wearing masks. He said, “Although positivity rate is not too high, we need to be vigilant.”
The BA. 4 and BA. 5 sub-variants of Omicron had led to the fifth wave of Covid-19 cases in several countries. Times of India reported.
According to the data released from WHO, BA. 4 or BA. 5 spread is now rapid. However, the cases are mostly asymptomatic and milder than other sub-variants of Omicron. But Dr Kiran Madala, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) certified researcher said that it can still affect high-risk groups including the elderly and people with comorbidities.
