Omicron variant detected in Ukraine

Ukraine has reported the first known case of the Omicron coronavirus variant.

"At night, the Omicron variant (B.1.1.529) was identified by whole-genome sequencing at the Public Health Center of the Ministry of Health Ukraine.

An infected person returned from the United Arab Emirates after having contact with COVID-19 patients. The patient continues to be treated," Minister of Health Viktor Liashko posted on Facebook.

According to the minister, an epidemiological investigation into this case and additional examination of contact persons are underway.

Liashko urged to get COVID-19 vaccination and to avoid, if possible, traveling abroad to regions where Omicron variant is circulating.

According to the Imperial College London study, a booster shot of COVID-19 could provide from 80% to 85.9% protection against severe illness from Omicron and 97% protection against severe illness from Delta.

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