PH detects two cases of Indian coronavirus variant

The Philippines has detected at least two cases of the B.1.617 coronavirus variant first identified in India.

Both patients are overseas Filipino workers who have recovered from COVID-19; one arrived from Oman on April 10 and the other from the United Arab Emirates on April 19.

Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire confirmed that both individuals tested negative for the virus after recovery, with no travel history to India.

Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque assured the public that the government is taking all necessary precautions to prevent the spread of this variant.