By Esther Wright
In a joint Press Release dated the 8th December 2021 issued by NaCOVERC and the MoHS, signed by Solomon Jamiru Esq Spokesperson of NaCOVERC and Harold Thomas, the Risk Communication Lead in the Ministry of Health and Sanitation, the two institutions stated how they wish to inform the public that on the 25th November 2021, samples were obtained from inbound passengers, one of which turned out to be positive by PCR for COVID-19.
The two institutions furthered that sequencing result from the positive case further proved to be positive for the Omicron variant (B.1.1.529).
It continued that the passenger in question had travelled from Nigeria to Sierra Leone on the 25th November 2021.
Both stated that it could be recalled that on the 26of November 2021, the World Health Organization (WHO) classified a new variant, B.1.1.529, as a Variant of Concern and termed it OMICRON.
They said notwithstanding the detection of Omicron, Delta remains the dominant strain in the world.
The occurrence of the Omicron variant (B.1.1.529) ,according to NaCOVERC and the Health Ministry, further underscores the significance of vaccination uptake and general precautionary measures needed to protect the population against COVID-19. They emphatically stated that everyone 18 years and older should get vaccinated immediately.
NaCOVERC and MoHS assured that together with partners they are finalizing plans for a third national vaccine surge to further increase uptake.
“This surge will help intensify vaccine efforts in the Western Area as well as in the Districts bordering Guinea and Liberia,” they expressed optimism adding how the detection of the first Omicron case demonstrates their unflinching commitment to testing and surveillance, as well as the country’s genomic sequencing capabilities.
NaCOVERC and MoHS stated how they will remain vigilant at points of entry, including the Freetown International Airport and are therefore calling on everyone to bear personal responsibility for their health and safety especially at this crucial festive season.
“We call on everyone to remain calm and report all suspected cases to 117,” the Release ends.
