Weekly Omicron Growth Highest in Lebanon (Monday, March 14, 2022)

The Omicron (B.1.1.529) variant of the Covid-19 virus continues to spread globally, reaching 1.67 million cases by Monday, March 14, 2022. Lebanon recorded the highest increase in Omicron cases, with weekly growth reaching 160 percent. GISAID recorded 13 new Omicron cases in the country. Daily cases in this region increased by 160 percent compared to the previous day.

Algeria followed in second place. Compared to the previous week, Omicron cases in the country grew by 150 percent, with 35 new cases reported. Daily statistics show an increase of 118.75 percent in Omicron cases compared to the previous day, which recorded 16 cases.

Next is Slovakia with 6,478 additional Omicron cases (up 89.47%), Malaysia with a 24.99 percent increase to 2,211 cases compared to the previous week, and India with a 24.32 percent increase to 28,953 cases compared to the previous week.

Meanwhile, in Indonesia, 8,097 Omicron cases were recorded, a 0.62 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.