The Omicron (B.1.1.529) variant of the Covid-19 virus continues to spread globally, reaching 2.2 million cases by Saturday, March 19, 2022. Seychelles recorded the highest increase in Omicron cases, with weekly growth reaching 9,600 percent. GISAID recorded 194 new Omicron cases in the country. Daily cases in this region increased by 0.52 percent compared to the previous day.
Myanmar followed in second place. Compared to the previous week, Omicron cases in the country grew by 460 percent. The daily increase in Omicron cases in the country rose by 460 percent compared to the previous day, which recorded five cases.
Next, Taiwan reported 14 additional Omicron cases (up 250%), Greece saw a 230.42 percent increase in Omicron cases to 3,096 compared to the previous week, and India reported 38,042 additional Omicron cases (up 33.63%).
Meanwhile, in Indonesia, the number of Omicron cases reached 8,566, a 0.19 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.