Manila Bulletin
New COVID-19 variant discovered in South Africa could be a cause for 'serious concern', says OCTA fellow
An OCTA Research fellow Dr. Guido David expressed serious concern over the new COVID-19 variant, B.1.1.529, detected in South Africa.
This variant is a cause for concern because it has a large number of mutations and is radically different from the original virus.
Dr. David stated that they will monitor the variant for its infectiousness and ability to evade vaccines, noting that boosters might be needed if it proves vaccine-resistant.
He warned that the new variant could easily find its way into the Philippines, especially with the planned influx of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in December.
David urged for intensified border restrictions to prevent the entry of the new variant.
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The Philippine government, through Malacañang, is closely monitoring a new and potentially more transmissible COVID-19 variant first detected in South Africa.
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The Department of Health (DOH) is awaiting guidance from the World Health Organization (WHO) on a new coronavirus variant, B.1.1.529, detected in South Africa that is suspected to be more transmissible.
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The Philippines has imposed an immediate travel ban on travelers from South Africa and six other African countries due to the emergence of the new COVID-19 variant, B.1.1.529.
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