KATHMANDU: A new sub-variant of the Omicron strain of the coronavirus has been confirmed in five individuals in Nepal.
According to Dr. Chandra B. Jha, head of the Epidemiology and Disease Control Division (EDCD), genome sequencing conducted at the National Public Health Laboratory identified the variant in five out of 14 COVID-19 positive samples collected between Jestha 22 and 29.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has previously stated that while the newly identified sub-variant is highly transmissible, it is not considered more severe.
Health experts have urged the public to remain cautious and adopt preventive measures, similar to past practices.
As per EDCD data, 167 COVID-19 cases have been confirmed in Nepal since Poush 2081.
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