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LU Covid-19 Diagnostic Lab discovers about 60 confirmed cases of “Omicron” mutant in Lebanon
On 4 December 2021, researchers in the Corona Diagnostic Laboratory of the Faculty of Science, indicated the first two cases infected with “Omicron” mutant in Lebanon, which were discovered through the relevant PCR test developed in the lab.
With the rise in the number of positive cases, the researchers confirmed that the number of infections with "Omicron" mutant has risen to 60 confirmed cases recorded for arrivals through the Beirut-Rafik Hariri International Airport from several African countries, Spain, Dubai and the USA. The researchers also indicated the presence of a large number of cases under investigation and that the spread of the new mutation is only a matter of time.
The diagnostic lab, which was the first to previously announce the emergence of “alpha” and “delta” mutants in Lebanon and track and monitor all mutants (alpha, beta, gamma and delta), is currently working on following up positive cases with a new accurate PCR technique to detect the omicron. The technique relies on 5 special mutations collectively found only in the new mutant.
Facing this reality, which may be dangerous in the coming days, Professor Abdel-Sater, researcher in biological sciences in the Lebanese University, recommends the necessity of adhering to the health preventive measures (mask wearing, sterilization, social distancing) and taking vaccines and completing the doses, given that vaccination reduces the severity of symptoms, and thus, prevents the admission to hospital and death.
Professor Abdel-Sater also stresses the importance and necessity of arrivals to abide by the home quarantine process until a negative PCR result is obtained.
