Weekly Omicron Growth Highest in Antigua and Barbuda (Thursday, August 18, 2022)

The Omicron (B.1.1.529) variant of the Covid-19 virus continues to spread globally, reaching 4.81 million cases by Thursday, August 18, 2022. Antigua and Barbuda recorded the highest weekly growth in Omicron cases, at 30.77 percent. GISAID reported 85 new Omicron cases in the country, representing a 30.77 percent daily increase.

Algeria followed with a 30.3 percent weekly growth in Omicron cases, adding 172 cases. Daily statistics showed a 30.3 percent increase compared to the previous day, with 132 new cases recorded.

Next, France saw a 28.47 percent increase in Omicron cases, reaching 254,110 cases compared to the previous week. Namibia recorded a 24.66 percent increase with 743 new cases, and Iceland saw a 17.08 percent increase, totaling 1,145 new cases compared to the previous week.

In Indonesia, as of Thursday, August 18, 2022, 18,824 new Omicron cases were recorded, a 0.19 percent increase from the previous day. Since its initial detection, 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 advised to consistently adhere to the 3M health protocols: wearing masks, maintaining distance, and washing hands.