Omicron sub-variant BA.2 found in 5 African countries -WHO scientist

The BA.2 sub-variant of Omicron has been found in five African countries, a World Health Organisation scientist said on Thursday, adding she was concerned about the development.

China reported five new deaths related to COVID-19 for Tuesday, bringing the official death toll to 5,258, very low by global standards. Stock photo.
China reported five new deaths related to COVID-19 for Tuesday, bringing the official death toll to 5,258, very low by global standards. Stock photo. (123RF/phonlamaiphoto)

The BA.2 sub-variant of Omicron has been found in five African countries, a World Health Organisation scientist said on Thursday, adding she was concerned about the development.

"BA.2 ... has been reported in five countries, that is Botswana, Kenya, Malawi, Senegal as well as South Africa," Dr Nicksy Gumede-Moeletsi told an online media briefing.

"We are very concerned," she said.


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