Omicron Variant Concern

The COVID-19 Omicron sub variant BA5, which has been causing concern in several countries, has been identified in Trinidad and Tobago. According to Chief Medical Officer Dr. Roshan Parasram, the variant was identified and confirmed last week Friday. He also mentioned that this country has identified the BA-1, BA-2, BA-4 and BA-5 in circulation among the population, with BA-2 maintaining dominant status. Dr. Parasram said his data suggests that none of the sub lineages cause more severe disease and as such, does not see the need to peddle back on lifting the mandatory mask mandate, which comes into effect on July 17th. Dr. Parasram was speaking at the Weekly Ministry of Health COVID-19 Press Briefing on Wednesday.