New Delhi: In the wake of the new strain of Coronavirus found in South Africa, Mumbai administration has taken a decision to quarantine all passengers arriving at the Mumbai Airport from South Africa and send their samples for genome sequencing.
Mumbai Mayor Kishori Pednekar said that samples of very person coming from South Africa to Mumbai Aiport will be sent for genome sequencing.
The decision by the Mumbai administration comes at a time when several countries have announced a ban on flights coming from South Africa after the detection of the new Coronavirus variant 'Omicron'. The Mayor in her statement said, “There are concerns in Mumbai regarding the new variant of Coronavirus. Genome sequencing of the samples of all passengers coming from South Africa will be conducted. There are no restrictions on the international flights. But this decision has been taken keeping in view the past experiences."
Pednekar further said, "The risk of Covid-19 has increased in other countries. Therefore, the genome sequencing test will be done. I would request everyone to follow social distancing and wear mask so that we can stop this new pandemic."
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a meeting with top officials on Saturday for about one and a half hours after the new strain of Covid-19 created a stir and the World Health Organization also issued a warning regarding the same.
During this meeting, the status of Covid-19 pandemic and vaccination were reviewed. Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba, PM's Principal Secretary PK Mishra, Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan and NITI Aayog Member (Health) Dr VK Paul were also present.