PHNOM PENH:​ The Cambodian Ministry of Health and the World Health Organization in Cambodia has released a joint press statement on updates of the Omicron variant. They have announced the variant is spreading quickly without borders and passports across the globe. They recommend all Cambodians to be vigilant and prepared so there is no regret of the latter causes.

The statement stresses that even the Kingdom has surpassed the vaccination of 10 million target, with more than 96% of the adult population with at least one dose administered, there is no time to be complacent. The document underlines the Pandemic has not ended yet, and it’s crucial Cambodians prepare for the new variants of Covid-19.

They have reminded the first identification of the Omicron variant, on nine of November, in South Africa, with the variant first reported on the 24th of November. Later, on the seven of December, the variant has been confirmed in patients of 57 different countries.

Working alongside the MoH, the WHO is relying on the Cambodian experience with the Delta variant, stating that while there is no evidence Omicron is already circulating in the Kingdom, it’s predicted that it’s just a matter of time for the virus to silently get into the country.

The Minister of Health and Chair of Inter-Ministerial Committee to Combat Covid-19, Mam Bunheng, has announced that risk-based measures at the International border are being implemented to slow down the circulation of the Omicron variant, with families and neighbors strictly adopting the safety measures and following the “3 Do’s and 3 Don’t’s”.

The document explains that Omicron variant has been designated as a variant of concern due to its numerous mutations that might impact on the way it behaves. On top of that, the Delta variant is still being circulated, which is more transmissible than the main variant of Covid-19. The authorities clarify that the new variant might not make the situation worst, but certainly will do everything more uncertain.

WHO Representative to Cambodia, Dr Li Ailan said “preparing for Covid-19 surges will help us to avoid the red line – when healthcare systems are overwhelmed – and to protect the vulnerable. These measures will help us to continue a safe and sustainable reopening.”

According to the press release, there is no verified indication yet if vaccines efficiency will be affected against the new Omicron variant, neither if it causes more severe diseases. What is known, however, is that Omicron is highly transmissible. The WHO is committed to keep researching on effects of the new variant.

Secretary of State and Spokesperson of the MoH and Chairperson of the Ad Hoc Committee for Rolling Out the Covid Vaccination Throughout the Country, Dr. Or Vandine has stressed that in Cambodia the 3 Dos and Don’ts are the strongest and most effectiveness defense against Covid-19, but everyone must ensure to strictly follow such measures in order to protect the whole Kingdom against Covid-19.

At last, the document states that PCR tests continues to detect Omicron infections, as an important way to keep track and monitor the spread of the new variant. But those regulations won’t disappear with Covid-19. Citizens must prepare for any possible surges with a strong defense and surveillance, followed by an strengthened early detection and a full vaccination against Covid-19.

^{PHOTO: AKP}