Omicron detected in Banjarmasin

Banjarmasin, S Kalimantan (ANTARA) - The new variant of Omicron has been detected in Banjarmasin, South Kalimantan, based on the samples sent to the Ministry of Health's Health Research and Development Agency (Litbangkes) laboratory.

"Of 17 samples sent by the South Kalimantan Health Office to the Litbangkes, 9 were positive for omicron and 3 of them were Banjarmasin residents," said acting Head of  Banjarmasin Health Office Machli Riyadi here on Tuesday.

Omicron detected samples of Banjarmasin residents taken a few days ago, he said, two of them had been hospitilized.

"Three patients who were declared exposed to Omicron have recovered, but many people who are now being infected by COVID-19 are suspected to be exposed to Omicron," said the man who now serves as Assistant 1 of Banjarmasin Administration.

This is based on a transmission curve that is so fast that COVID-19 cases in the capital of South Kalimantan Province have increased significantly, presumably because of Omicron.

"Indeed, we have done tracking of the cases of exposed to Omicron and all close contacts were underwent antigen swab and the results were all negative. So, we have tried to block the transmission," he pointed out.

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However, the South Kalimantan Health Office reported today the increase in COVID-19 cases in Banjarmasin has reached 273 bringing the total active case of COVID-19 in the city to 1,147. Today also 26 patients were declared cured.

"We ask the public to be vigilant, increase the implementation of health protocols, on't be careless," he said.

In addition, COVID-19 vaccination is intensified, especially for elderly, which was 50 percent has been realized of the total target of 45,000 people.

"For the general public the coverage of COVID-19 vaccination has reached more than 83 percent of the total target of 711,000 people," he said.

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