Omicron Cases in Papua New Guinea Rise 56.88% in a Week (Wednesday, January 18, 2023)

The Omicron (B.1.1.529) variant of the Covid-19 virus continues to spread globally, reaching 6.06 million cases by Wednesday, January 18, 2023. According to GISAID data, Papua New Guinea recorded the highest increase in Omicron cases, with 924 new cases. The total number of Omicron cases in Papua New Guinea currently represents 0.02 percent of the global total.

Next is Greece, which recorded a 33.29 percent increase in Omicron cases compared to the previous week. Daily data shows a 16.81 percent increase in Omicron cases compared to the previous day.

Then, China (PRC) reported 1,963 new Omicron cases (a 21.7% increase), Japan with 339,750 new Omicron cases (a 3.95% increase), and Indonesia with 33,343 new Omicron cases (a 3.35% increase).

Meanwhile, in Indonesia, the number of new Omicron cases reached 33,343, a 0.28 percent increase compared to the previous day. Since it was first monitored, the number of Omicron cases in Indonesia has 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.