The Omicron variant detected for the first time in France, in Reunion Island – archyworldys

A positive case Omicron variant of the coronavirus has been identified on the island of Reunion, announced Tuesday, November 30, a researcher of the joint research unit Infectious process in tropical island environment (Pimit). This would be the first positive case identified in France.

The patient who tested positive is “A 53 year old man”, who traveled to Mozambique and “Stopped over in South Africa” before coming to Reunion, said the microbiologist Patrick Mavingui on the waves of Reunion la 1ère (France Televisions group). Placed in isolation as well as his entourage, “Man suffers from muscle pain and fatigue”, said the scientist.

La Pimit has been mobilized ” emergency “ Sunday night, “For the sequencing of six tests”, said the microbiologist. The other five samples are negative. Local and national health authorities were immediately notified, Mavingui said.

Tuesday morning on Europe 1, government spokesman Gabriel Attal clarified that the Omicron variant positive patient had six contact persons at risk in his entourage. In addition, the test results of other suspected cases are awaited. “In the next few hours”.

Gabriel Attal on the first case of the Omicron variant in France: “We have absolute vigilance. We are waiting for other res … https://t.co/lvJkJprbRA

– Europe1 (@Europe 1 ???)

First reported less than a week ago to the WHO in South Africa, this new strain has since been identified, from the Pacific to Europe, via Canada, leading around 40 countries to announce travel restrictions.