Omicron sub-mutants cause surge in COVID infections — epidemiology centre

AMMAN — The National Epidemiology and Infectious Diseases Centre on Monday urged continuing to adhere to preventive measures, as the epidemiological curve of COVID-19 showed a noticeable surge in the number of infections since the beginning 2023, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported. 

The epidemiological curve indicated an increase in infections during week 7, spanning from February 11 to February 17, with a number of cases reaching 445 and a positive rate of 11.2 per cent.

The centre attributed the surge to the emergence of new sub-mutants of Omicron (XBB and BQ). 

The number of hospital admissions has doubled compared with previous weeks, as 47 patients were admitted, 38 of whom were placed in isolation rooms, seven in intensive care rooms, and two cases under artificial respirators. 

The centre affirmed that it is closely following and monitoring the general epidemiological situation in the Kingdom and any changes that may occur in the prevailing patterns of communicable diseases, especially diseases that possess the potential to spread, posing a threat to public health.

Advising the public to constantly ventilate closed spaces, the centre also encouraged people to use masks and follow preventive measures.