Islamabad, January 2, 2024 – The Ministry of Health in Pakistan moved swiftly on Tuesday to dispel concerns, asserting that no cases of the Omicron variant, specifically the JN.1 variant of the Corona virus, have been reported in the country.
The announcement comes in response to global worries surrounding the emergence of the Omicron variant in various parts of the world.
According to the spokesperson of the ministry, the emergence of the new JN.1 variant, commonly referred to as Omicron, has been highlighted in media reports in several countries. The spokesperson acknowledged the global concern surrounding the variant and emphasized that, as of now, Pakistan remains free of any reported Omicron cases.
Caretaker Federal Minister for Health, Dr. Nadeem Jan, sought to reassure the public, stating that the government is actively monitoring the situation in light of the emergence of the subvariant Omicron, known as JN.1, in certain countries. While expressing confidence in the country’s readiness to handle such scenarios, Dr. Jan acknowledged the need for caution.
Dr. Nadeem Jan emphasized that the perceived risk of the Omicron variant spreading within Pakistan is currently very low. Nevertheless, he underscored the importance of exercising caution and adhering to recommended health protocols to minimize any potential risk. The Minister affirmed the government’s commitment to implementing the recommendations of international health regulations to safeguard the public.
Highlighting the measures in place to monitor and control potential threats, Dr. Nadeem Jan stated that international airports, the entry, and exit points of the country, have an effective screening system in operation. This system is designed to identify and isolate potential cases, helping prevent the introduction and spread of any new variants.
As a proactive measure, the Ministry of Health has advised provincial and regional health institutions to intensify testing efforts. The goal is to promptly detect and isolate any potential cases, thereby preventing the spread of the virus. Dr. Nadeem Jan also urged citizens to remain vigilant, emphasizing the use of masks as a crucial preventive measure, especially during the winter season when respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19 and flu, tend to be more prevalent.
While addressing concerns about the new variant, the Ministry of Health aims to keep the public well-informed and alleviate any undue anxiety. The proactive approach adopted by the government, coupled with ongoing monitoring and preventive measures, reflects a commitment to public health and safety. The Ministry encourages citizens to stay informed through official channels and adhere to recommended health guidelines to collectively mitigate the risks associated with emerging variants of the virus.
