The Omicron (B.1.1.529) variant of the Covid-19 virus continues to spread globally, reaching 5.17 million cases by Tuesday, May 9, 2023. Nepal reported the highest increase in Omicron cases, with weekly growth reaching 4.48 percent. GISAID recorded 1,214 new Omicron cases in the country. Daily cases in this region increased by 0.91 percent compared to the previous day.
Following Nepal is Vietnam, with weekly Omicron case growth reaching 1.92 percent. The country reported 5,730 new Omicron cases. Daily statistics show a 1.11 percent increase in Omicron cases compared to the previous day, which recorded 5,667 cases.
Next is Thailand with 26,259 additional Omicron cases (up 1.65 percent), Lithuania with a 1.51 percent increase to 11,083 cases compared to the previous week, and Spain with a 0.98 percent increase to 110,650 cases compared to the previous week.
Meanwhile, in Indonesia, the number of Omicron cases reached 36,266, a 0.29 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 all parties to remain vigilant against 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.