Weekly Omicron Growth Highest in Seychelles (Friday, March 18, 2022)

The Omicron (B.1.1.529) variant of the Covid-19 virus continues to spread globally, reaching 2.23 million cases by Friday, March 18, 2022. Seychelles recorded the highest increase in Omicron cases, with weekly growth reaching 9,550 percent. GISAID recorded 193 new Omicron cases in the country. Daily cases in this region increased by 26.97 percent compared to the previous day.

Following Seychelles is Brunei Darussalam, with weekly Omicron case growth reaching 511.39 percent. Daily Omicron cases in this country increased by 10.65 percent compared to the previous day, totaling 873 cases.

Furthermore, Greece reported 3,097 additional Omicron cases (up 295.53%), Slovakia reported 7,224 additional Omicron cases (up 111.29%), and Ecuador reported 1,140 additional Omicron cases (up 74.85%).

Meanwhile, in Indonesia, the number of Omicron cases reached 8,550, a 1.51 percent increase compared to the previous day. Since it was first monitored, Omicron cases in Indonesia have continued to rise.

The Ministry of Health (Kemenkes) urges everyone to remain vigilant in the face of the global surge in Omicron cases. The public is urged to consistently adhere to the 3M health protocols: wearing masks, maintaining distance, and washing hands.