Sequenced COVID-19 samples were of Omicron and its sub-lineages: DPH
The Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) of COVID-19 samples showed that the infections were caused by the existing Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2 and its sub-lineages, T.S. Selvavinayagam, Director of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, said.
The strains currently in circulation are of Omicron and its sub-variants. It has not produced any virulent infections, he pointed out.
In a video message put out by the directorate on Tuesday, Dr. Selvavinayagam said the current COVID-19 situation in the State was being continuously monitored through the Integrated Health Information Platform. As of now, 10 to 15 cases of COVID-19 were being reported in the State per day.
Non-virulent infections
Noting that there were non-virulent infections, he said that there were no hospital admissions and deaths due to COVID-19 in the State. 'It is a simple respiratory tract infection. The symptoms are the same and are not severe in nature. So, we may not experience any challenges,' Dr. Selvavinayagam said.
To monitor the situation and look out for any new strains of COVID-19, the State had taken up WGS. Of the 26 samples, 19 were sent for WGS to the National Institute of Virology, Pune, in April, he added.
'The results have shown that there is no new variant. The samples were found to be of the existing Omicron, and its descendant variants — JN.1.16.1, LF.7.9, and LF.7.1.2. All these are sub-lineages of Omicron. There are no new variants or any virulent strains of COVID-19. All cases are of simple infections only,' he said. There was one case of NB.1.8.1 variant as well.
Reiterating that there was no need for panic, Dr. Selvavinayagam said there was a need to approach this scientifically. 'We are continuously monitoring the situation. What people should know is that if any one has symptoms of COVID-19, especially persons with co-morbidities or the elderly, immediate medical help should be sought at hospitals,' he said. Hand hygiene and cough etiquette should be maintained.
'We should be vigilant. There is no need for panic and no need for any additional restrictions in this situation,' he said. The State government had adequate health infrastructure, Dr. Selvavinayagam added.
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