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Rabat – Morocco’s Ministry of Health and Social Protection has underscored the importance of maintaining vigilance against the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in light of the potential threat posed by a new sub-variant of the Omicron variant of the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
The ministry’s statement, released on Friday, July 11, emphasized the need for completing vaccination doses to enhance immunity against severe cases of COVID-19.
Despite the nation currently experiencing a stable epidemiological situation, the Ministry of Health remains proactive in its approach to tracking the evolving landscape of the pandemic. The ministry confirmed that there have been no reported cases caused by the sub-variant EG.5.1 of the Omicron variant, also known as the “Iris” strain.
According to the ministry’s source, the assessment revealed that while the current situation remains stable, the possibility of the sub-variant EG.5.1 spreading and triggering a new wave of infections in the Kingdom cannot be ruled out.
There is also a concern regarding the potential for severe cases and fatalities, particularly among vulnerable populations such as the elderly, immunocompromised individuals, and those with chronic health conditions.
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In light of these potential risks, the Ministry of Health and Social Protection, in collaboration with the National Scientific Committee, strongly encourages the completion of vaccination doses. This, they believe, is a crucial step toward bolstering immunity against severe forms of COVID-19.
Furthermore, individuals exhibiting respiratory symptoms are advised to don masks and promptly seek medical attention while refraining from engaging in any professional or social activities that could facilitate the virus’s spread.
The ministry’s statement also draws attention to the global context, noting that several countries have recently encountered the EG.5.1 sub-variant. While the World Health Organization (WHO) has yet to determine the full extent of its virulence, the organization maintains its recognition of COVID-19 as an ongoing threat to public health.
Despite having declared the end of the global health emergency related to COVID-19 in May of the present year, WHO remains vigilant due to the persistent threat of new variants and sub-strains.
The completion of vaccination doses, combined with swift action in the face of potential symptoms, remain essential components of the nation’s strategy to safeguard public health and well-being.
