Pakistan today reported its first case of the Omicron variant of coronavirus.
According to Sindh Health Department, a private hospital in Karachi has reported the first case of the variant in a female patient today (Dec 9).
Sindh health department said the female patient had arrived in Pakistan from abroad, adding that they were verifying her travel history. Health authorities further added that they were trying to figure out the patient’s contact tracing as well.
Qasim Siraj Soomro, Sindh Parliamentary Health Secretary said it was imminent that Omicron would reach Pakistan as flights were continue.
“At the international level, several PCR tests were not positive in patients who were later diagnosed with Omicron infection. The new virus is highly mutated.”
He added that the PCR kits that we have focus on the Delta variant.
The NCOC had already taken measures to control the spread of the Omicron variant in the country and announced a massive vaccination plan that started from Dec 1.
In a meeting of the National Command and Operations Centre (NCOC) held earlier this month, it was decided to inoculate booster shots to immunocompromised people, healthcare workers and those aged over 50 years.
The forum had also tightened travel restrictions banning passengers from 15 countries including southern African nations and making COVID-19 testing and vaccination for inbound travellers from Category B countries.
It was also emphasised during the NCOC meeting that the Omicron variant is spreading fast across the globe and the only protection against it is vaccination and following basic SOPs, including the wearing of face masks, practicing social distancing and washing hands.
