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Let's take a closer look at the news related to the Omicron mutation, which has emerged as the biggest variable in the prevention of Corona. South Africa made the first official announcement that an omicron mutation had occurred, but it was belatedly confirmed that there had already been an infection in the Netherlands before this announcement. With the possibility that the virus has spread more widely than expected, countries around the world are again strengthening their quarantine measures.
Correspondent Kim A-young.
<Reporter>
South Africa reported the infection of Omicron to the World Health Organization (WHO) on the 24th of last month.
However, the Dutch National Institute of Public Health and Environment announced that omicron mutations were confirmed in samples collected between the 19th and 23rd of last month.
[Rösken/Netherlands National Institute of Public Health and Environment: I asked you to send me suspicious samples to confirm it. So basically, November 19th is the earliest date.] The
European Union hastily controlled the border after South Africa's report, but at this time, Omicron has already been introduced or has occurred.
In the European Union, 42 cases of Omicron infection have been confirmed in 10 countries so far. 6 additional checks are in progress.
In France, yesterday (30th) alone, there were 47,000 new confirmed cases, the highest in 8 months.
Countries are accelerating the strengthening of quarantine measures.
Switzerland decided to push ahead with a plan to make the so-called vaccine pass, a certificate of immunity against COVID-19, mandatory for all indoor events, and Italy, which lifted the mandatory wearing of a mask in June, is reviewing a plan to restore it.
The UK, with 22 confirmed cases of Omicron infection, has announced that it will do all it can to complete booster shots and booster shots for those over 18 by the end of next month.