Weekly Omicron Growth Highest in Uruguay (Thursday, January 5, 2023)

The Omicron (B.1.1.529) variant of the Covid-19 virus continues to spread globally, reaching 5.58 million cases by Thursday, January 5, 2023. Uruguay reported the highest increase in Omicron cases, with weekly growth reaching 207.69 percent. GISAID recorded 120 new Omicron cases in the country. Daily cases in this region increased by 207.69 percent compared to the previous day.

Next is Guatemala, which recorded a 23.61 percent increase in Omicron cases compared to the previous week. Daily data shows a 3.97 percent increase in Omicron cases compared to the previous day.

Furthermore, Omicron cases in Hong Kong increased by 9.26 percent to 11,125 cases compared to the previous week, Nigeria saw a 7.68 percent increase with 3,029 new Omicron cases, and North Korea reported a 7.26 percent increase, reaching 75,740 Omicron cases compared to the previous week.

Meanwhile, in Indonesia, 31,766 Omicron cases were recorded, a 0.01 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.