Mumbai's sixth genome sequencing: Omicron found in 2 per cent samples

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The results of the sixth round of genome sequencing tests carried out in the city have revealed the presence of the Omicron variant of COVID-19 along with the Delta derivatives and Delta variants. Of the total 297 samples tested, 62 per cent (183 samples) had the Delta derivatives and 35 per cent (105 samples) were found to be infected by the subtype Delta variant. It has also been observed that 2 per cent (seven samples) were infected with Omicron and the remaining 1 per cent had the presence of the other variants.

The next-generation genome sequencing of COVID-19 is being carried out since August this year. By determining the genetic formula of the COVID virus, the difference between two or more variants of the same virus can be identified, which makes it easier to determine the exact direction of treatment.

Of the 297 patients tested, 103 were in the age group of 21 to 40 years, 80 in the age group of 41 to 60 years and 68 patients in the age group 61 to 80 years. About 19 patients had taken the first dose of vaccine, and out of them, three patients had to be admitted to hospital. However, none needed oxygen or had to be admitted to the intensive care unit.

Of the 194 patients who had taken both doses, 33 had to be hospitalised. One of these patients needed oxygen, while another had to be admitted to the intensive care unit. Of the total number of patients, 84 had not received a single dose of the vaccine.

Out of these, 22 patients had to be admitted to hospital, two patients needed oxygen and two had to be admitted to the intensive care unit.

While giving a presentation at the Cabinet meeting on Wednesday, Health Secretary Dr Pradeep Vyas said the state was expected to have a large number of Omicron infections in the coming month. He said that the Omicron infections that have come to the fore are mostly from cities but cases would be traced to towns and villages as well.