BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN : The Ministry of Health (MoH) has confirmed the presence of the Delta variant in the Sultanate, after samples from local cases tested positive for the highly contagious SARS-CoV-2 virus strain.

This was announced by Minister of Health Dato Seri Setia Dr Mohd Isham Jaafar at the daily press conference on Thursday (Aug 26).

“Results from the genotyping or sequencing tests of samples from local cases that were sent overseas showed that all 20 samples are of the Delta variant,” he said.

The minister added that the Delta variant is known to be two to three times more infectious than other variants, but urged the public not to panic.

“The Delta variant is known to be two to three times more infectious that other variants. However, the preventive and control measures of any Covid-19 variant remains the same, such as getting a Covid-19 vaccine injection; wearing a face mask when outdoors especially in crowded areas; and frequent hand washing with soap and water or by using hand sanitiser.”

Later, in addressing public concerns about the recent Covid-related deaths, he said, “It shows that the virus is easily transmissible and poses a high risk, especially to those with non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as renal failure, uncontrolled diabetes, hypertension or a high body mass index (BMI).

“People with a high BMI have a strong risk factor, leading to severe health effects.”

On the issue of dishonesty in filling out the BruHealth report, the minister said, “If such people get a green code, when in reality they have a red or purple code, then they should not go out.”

He continued, “This can be reported to the police, for further action. If that were the case, then they will receive a BND5,000 fine or face legal action.”

Asked whether there have been any serious side effects from the vaccines, the minister replied, “There is a committee monitoring those with side effects. Those with serious side effects such as a stroke are usually subject to further investigation.

“There are also deaths reported, but whether these are related or otherwise is another matter, so it needs to be investigated further. Sometimes it is not related, as some of those vaccinated already had health risks. To verify this would require a post-mortem, to ascertain if it is related to vaccination or is case of sudden death.”

  - ANN