Omicron detected in India: What we know so far

The government on Thursday said that India reported as many as two omicron cases. Both the cases have been reported in Karnataka. The new COVID-19 variant was first detected in South Africa in November.

Here’s what we know so far:

a. The cases were found in two foreign nationals – 66 and 46. According to the health ministry, all primary contacts and secondary contacts of both the cases have been traced and are being tested.

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b. Both the cases are mild and haven’t showed any severe symptoms so far.

c. There’s no need to panic about Omicron detection but “awareness is absolutely essential”.

Also read: 2 Omicron cases reported in India, both from Karnataka: Centre

d. Follow COVID-appropriate behaviour and avoid gatherings.

e. The new variant can be five times more infectious than the other known variants of the novel coronavirus.

f. 373 cases of omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2 have been detected in 29 nations so far.

On Wednesday, the Union Health Ministry announced a revised set of rules for international travellers.

As per the latest update, passengers planning to travel to India must submit a self-declaration form on the Air Suvidha Portal, online, before their scheduled travel dates.

Also read: Explained: How do you pronounce ‘Omicron’?

Further, they must submit their last 14 days travel details. They must upload a negative RT-PCR report on the portal before the journey.

The test must be conducted within 72 hours before travel. Travellers from countries not ‘at-risk’ can leave the airport but must self-monitor for 14 days after arrival.