Omicron was first discovered in four foreigners – Botswana authorities.

adminNews4 years ago

In light of the arising reports of the COVID variant of concern also known as Omicron, the Botswana authorities have said the variant was first discovered by the country’s scientists in four foreigners on a diplomatic mission in the country.

According to People’s Gazette, the Botswana government in a statement by its health and wellness ministry disclosed that the diplomats arrived in Botswana on November 7.

(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});

The statement further revealed that on November 11, the COVID-19 test conducted on the diplomats come back positive after they had completed their diplomatic mission and we’re planning to depart the fourth for their home country.

However, On November 24, further test (Genomic sequencing) on the samples showed the virus had mutated to B.1.1.529, otherwise known as Omicron.

The Botswana government said the virus has various mutations and complex sample analysis was ongoing to study the behavioural pattern of the virus.

(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});

The authorities, also added that since the diplomats’ departure, all persons who had made contact with them have been traced and all tested negative.

The government statement emphasised that no one showed symptoms of the virus.

The government said it was yet to draw major conclusions as information continues to evolve regarding the new variant.