Dr. Teera Woratanarat, Faculty of Medicine Chulalongkorn University In a private Facebook post, it states that, recently, the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has declared the BA.4 and BA.5 strains of COVID-19 a strain of concern, or Variants of Concern. (VOC) already yesterday, May 13, 2022.
Both of these species are classified as subspecies of Omicron, beginning to be found in January (BA.4) and February (BA.5) 2022, and then spread to countries around the world. not a lot But the outbreak data in South Africa found The daily expansion rate of BA.4 and BA.5 is 12% higher than the BA.2 strain that currently dominates the global outbreak.
In addition, in Portugal, where outbreaks of the BA.5 strain are increasing rapidly The daily growth rate was 13% higher than BA.2, consistent with that found in South Africa. As of May 8, 2022, 38% of the BA.5 strain was detected in Portugal, so it is estimated that this strain will become late. Main breed in Portugal by 22 May 65 or in just 2 weeks.
Current data confirms that BA.4 and BA.5 strains are more prevalent than before. Most likely due to the ability to dodge more immunity.
The results of laboratory studies found that People who have not been vaccinated before Even if they have been infected with Omicron strain BA.1 before, the immunity that develops after infection It can not protect against BA.4 and BA.5 strains, so vaccination and regular self-defense is essential.
As for the severity of the disease Current information is limited. But it is not expected to be different from the original species.
Dr. Teera said that for Thailand The outbreak continues. after opening the country More international travel and no more intensive screening tests Therefore, there is a high chance that strains BA.4, BA.5 or even BA.2.12.1 will come in and cause the outbreak in the country to be higher than before.
In addition, next week there will be an opening of classes as well.
By InfoQuest News Agency (14 May 65)
Tags: BA.4, BA.5, COVID-19, lifestyle, Teera Worathanarat, Covid-19