The Singaporean Ministry of Health has reported two imported Covid-19 cases of the Omicron variant following preliminary testing.
Based on a report by The Straits Times, both patients were aboard Singapore Airlines flight SQ479, arriving from Johannesburg on Wednesday (1 December).
“They have undergone a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test upon arrival in Singapore and were immediately conveyed to a stay-home notice (SHN) dedicated facility to be isolated while awaiting their test results.” they shared, adding that the two had no interaction with anyone in the community.
“There is currently no evidence of any community transmission from these cases.”
They both also tested negative for Covid-19 in their pre-departure test in Mozambique and Johannesburg respectively, on 29 November.
All other passengers on board the same plane have tested negative for Covid-19 and will have to conduct another PCR test once their 10-day SHN is complete.
The Singaporean MOH added that contact tracing is still ongoing and close contacts will also be placed on 10-day quarantines.
“All patients suspected or confirmed to be infected with the Omicron variant will be sent to NCID for isolation and clinical management. Home recovery will not apply.” they added.
The Omicron variant is now a stone’s throw away. Do take all necessary measures to stay safe, to follow SOPs and to not leave our homes unnecessarily until we know exactly what we are dealing with.