Canada has reported its first case of a new variant of the COVID-19 virus. The variant, called BA.2.86, was discovered in the Fraser Health region and involves an individual who had not traveled outside of the province. Health officials have stated that there doesn’t appear to be increased severity with this variant, and the person is not hospitalized.
The BA.2.86 variant was initially identified in Denmark in July and has been found in several other countries, including the United States. The World Health Organization has classified it as a “variant under monitoring” due to the numerous mutations it possesses. Variants under monitoring are those that show signs of potential “growth advantage” compared to dominant circulating variants, but further evidence is needed to determine their impact.
The presence of BA.2.86 in Canada was not unexpected, as COVID-19 continues to spread globally and the virus continues to evolve. Health officials emphasize the importance of reducing transmission and achieving high levels of protection through vaccination. Vaccinated individuals are less likely to experience severe illness or require hospitalization.
The detection of this variant highlights the effectiveness of Canada’s COVID-19 surveillance efforts, including testing and wastewater surveillance. As of now, no other cases of the BA.2.86 variant have been found through wastewater surveillance in British Columbia. The most common variants found in the province are EG.5 and XBB 1.16. Wastewater data from different areas of the province shows a decrease in viral loads in Metro Vancouver wastewater plants, while levels remain steady or slightly increase in the interior and Vancouver Island plants.
Currently, there are 76 people hospitalized with COVID-19 in British Columbia, a significant decrease from the peak in April. The government plans to launch an immunization campaign in September or October, focusing on the XBB 1.5 variant. The National Advisory Council on Immunization recommends a fall booster shot for those over 65, living in long-term care homes, pregnant individuals, and those at high risk due to underlying medical conditions.
Some experts warn that Canada may be entering a new wave of COVID-19 after months of low transmission. The Public Health Agency of Canada is closely monitoring the spread of the BA.2.286 variant.
(End of content)
Denial of responsibility! VigourTimes is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
