New subvariant of Covid-19 confirmed in Karachi

Genome sequencing of BF.7 subvariant is underway at Dow University

KARACHI:

The Sindh Health Department has confirmed the presence of the new variant of the novel coronavirus in the metropolitan city.

A case of the BF.7 sub-variant of Omicron strain, which has infected millions of people in China, has been confirmed in Karachi after genome sequencing. This is the first case of BF.7 strain in Pakistan, as per the Provincial Health Department.

Further genome sequencing is underway at the Dow University, according to Professor Saeed Khan, the head of the modern laboratory.

He advised people to adopt precautionary measures against this sub-variant. The health SOPs for BF.7 are the same as for the novel coronavirus and its earlier variants.

He added that it was not immediately known how quickly this sub-variant would spread.

Prof. Khan advised people to maintain social distancing, wear mask, and get a booster shot of the coronavirus vaccine.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 1^st, 2023.