Spokesperson of the Health Emergency Operations Center (HEOC), Dr. Nazla Rafeeq has stated that the discovery of the newly surfaced, more transmissible variant of Covid-19 in the Maldives is inevitable, however, efforts may be carried out to slow the spread of the infection.

Speaking at the press conference hosted on Sunday, Dr. Nazla revealed that it is not possible for authorities to stop the variant from surfacing in the Maldives, however, the chance of wide-spreading infection may be lessened with stringent measures planned out and implemented earlier on.

She further revealed that unlike other variants, the ‘Omicron’ SARS-CoV-2 variant is more transmissible, however this may only be confirmed after thorough research.

The new variant, dubbed a “variant of concern” by the World Health Organization (WHO) was initially named B.1.1529

Research indicates that those who have recovered from the virus are at a high risk of contracting the virus again. The new variant is deemed to highly impact the transmission of the pandemic.

Dr. Nazla went on to confirm that Maldives has imposed a ban on travel from seven countries in Africa, triggered by the threats of Omicron.

Highlighting that authorities will send samples for genome sequencing, she noted that this is currently being done every once a week.

She said that 308 samples were being sent abroad for sequencing and that they have been sending batches of 50 samples on a weekly basis. So far, 750 samples have been sent since August 13.

Stressing that some communities are observed to be reckless in adhering to the precautionary measures in place, Dr. Nazla urged communities nationwide to pay special heed to ensure the safety of all.

She further cited scientists to have revealed that the variant rooted from a patient suffering from long-term chronic illnesses.

With this being said, she affirmed that efforts are underway to assess the spread of the new variantand the effectivity of vaccines against it.