The Department of Epidemiology of the Ministry of Health issued an epidemiological alert this Wednesday, January 18, due to the identification of COVID-19 positive cases with the Omicron variant, XBB 1.5 sublineage, which may contribute to increased case incidence and a greater risk of reinfection.
The genesis of the epidemiological alert is based on the publication of a rapid risk assessment carried out by the World Health Organization (WHO) issued on 11 January.
This evaluation highlights The risk presented by the Omicron XBB 1.5 variant is present in 38 countries.
However, on December 27, 2022, the National Laboratory of Health released a sequencing report with revealing data on this sub-lineage.
“Of the total samples for which phylogenetic assignment was obtained, 100% match Omicron, The most frequent variant corresponded to recombinant XBB (recombinant variant of BA.2.10.1 and BA 2.75 sublineages), representing 75.9% of the total lineages detected”, it detailed.
Faced with this situation, the Department of Epidemiology launched Alert to strengthen the epidemic surveillance work, To intensify screening and active tracing of “silent municipalities” or cases with increased infection.
Health said it is important that the population is aware that the risk of transmission remains, so Makes it necessary to continue preventive measures such as the use of masks, hand washing and disinfection with alcohol gelAlso start or continue with the vaccination plan, avoid crowds and visit health services in case of symptoms to test.
To read more: “Hound of Hell”: Omicron sublineage already has presence in three departments and is recommended by Health
He confirmed that he maintains surveillance of Kovid-19 through sequencing analysis, epidemiological alerts, Therefore, it urges the population to continue with the preventive measures.
According to health data as of this Wednesday, January 18, There have been 20 thousand 63 deaths due to the Kovid-19 epidemic in Guatemala.
Total cases reported are 1 lakh 220 thousand 203 and those who have recovered are up to 1 lakh 191 thousand 452.
The number of active infections is 8,688. As per this latest report, 8,947 swabs were done in the last few hours and 782 tested positive.
symptoms
Characteristics of the XBB 1.5 sublineage
- According to Salud, it is known that the symptoms are similar to those of other types.
- sore throat
- terms of service
- fatigue
- less loss of smell and taste
#Updates, #MSPAS Reports laboratory confirmed cases on the status dashboard as of January 18, 2023 #COVID-19 in Guatemala.
From 00:00 to 23:59 on January 17, 2023.
Enter https://t.co/sVrE3dBq6c pic.twitter.com/tfiQGQ7qPc– Ministry of Public Health (@MinSaludGuate) January 18, 2023
