The National Institute of Health (NIH) announced on Monday that the first case of Omicron sub-variant BA.2.12.1 was found in Pakistan.
The institute – which has been dealing with Covid-related issues since the National Center for Management and Operations was officially closed – said the lower difference is causing “an increase in the number of cases in different countries”.
“The best preventative measure (without wearing a mask in crowded areas) is the Covid-19 vaccine. We strongly recommend that you be vaccinated and that all those who need to be vaccinated should get vaccinated immediately,” the center added.
The new Omicron sub-diversity is a descendant of the “stealth Omicron” which became highly contagious and quickly gained a foothold in the United States.
BA.2.12.1 was responsible for 29 percent of new U.S. Covid-19 infections in the third week of April, according to data reported by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. And it caused 58pc of reported infections in the New York area.
The difference has been found in at least 13 other countries, but the US has its high levels so far. Scientists say it spreads faster than the secret Omicron.
The development comes as Pakistan sees a decline in the number of Covid-19 cases that has dropped sharply over the past few weeks.
With less than 100 Covid-19 cases reported daily since April 27, the country reports only 64 cases on Monday.