Mauritius leading trade union, the State and Other Employees Federation (SOEF), is concerned about the danger posed by COVID-Omicron XBB BF.7 sub-variant, which is reportedly wreaking havoc in China and has spread to other countries.
It has called the Mauritian government to impose compulsory face masks in public areas.
SOEF president Radhakrishna Sadien referred to document circulating on WhatsApp claiming that the new variant is “deadly and not easy to detect” because people who catch the virus reportedly do not have a cough or fever.
The email also states that the BF.7 sub-variant is 5 times more virulent than the Delta variant and has a higher mortality rate.
“Covid-Omicron XBB BF.7 sub-variant has become something very contagious, highly virulent and lethal,” he said, as he also called for additional security measures at the airport.
Coincidentally, new health restrictions at the airport are being contemplated by local authorities.
“In addition to the current temperature checks, passengers coming from or transiting through China will be monitored during the first days of their stay in Mauritius. But there are no restrictions yet, but these could come soon,” said Dr Ashwamed Dinassing, Director of Health Services was cited as saying.
The COVID-19 pandemic continues to be prevalent in Mauritius. As at 04 January 2023, there were 54 active cases of COVID-19, out of which 15 were admitted at the New ENT Hospital. Over the period 29 December 2022 to 04 January 2023, no death was attributed to COVID-19.
Source: Defi Media
