How many subvariants of the Omicron strain circulate in Ukraine and how dangerous they are: the Ministry of Health answered

29 subtypes of the COVID-19 strain are circulating on the territory of Ukraine”Omicron“.

From the beginning of 2022 “Omicron” actually crowded out other COVID strains, including “Delta” and “Alpha”, are reported in MiMinistry of Health.

The subvariants were discovered by studying the strains of COVID-19 for mutations during the epidemiological season of 2023-2024.

“This is a special laboratory study that allows us to genetically decode the virus and find out what mutations have occurred in its genome.

It makes it possible to monitor the existing strains that prevail in the country and the nature of the mutations that arise – to take operational measures in case of an increase in cases of disease during the epidemic season. – the ministry reports.

They add that according to the course of the disease, the strain “Omicron“ mostly proceeds as an ordinary respiratory disease and does not cause severe oxygen dependence.

At the same time, it remains dangerous for:

▲ people with pathologies, chronic diseases and weakened immunity;

▲ and people over 60 years old.

People from the risk group are recommended by the Ministry of Health to get vaccinated – the vaccination is free of charge can be done at the family doctor or at the vaccination point at the hospital.

The Ministry of Health adds that the nature of the mutations of COVID-19 does not indicate that the virus has become more aggressive for the human body.

“COVID-19 is increasingly occurring as an acute respiratory viral infection and evades the immune response – it is more likely to affect a weakened immune system, so even those who have been vaccinated can get sick, but acquired immunity after vaccination reduces the risks of complications during the illness.” – said the chief state sanitary doctor of Ukraine Ihor Kuzin.

We used to reportedthat cases of a new subvariant of “Omicron” – “Jenny” – have been recorded in Ukraine.