To confirm (whether it was) Omicron or not, we must continue to use Whole Genome Sequencing
Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Health Ministry called for confirming Omicron infection cases through Whole Genome Sequencing examination conducted to determine the entire sequence of nitrogenous bases in an organism's genome or genetic material.

Spokesperson for the Health Ministry Siti Nadia Tarmizi delivered the statement in response to the promotion of an antigen test kit on online trading platforms and several clinics in Jakarta, with claims of it being able to detect transmission of the virus that caused Omicron infections.

"Currently, there is the S-Gene Target Failure RT-PCR method, but this is only a conjecture. To confirm (whether it was) Omicron or not, we must continue to use Whole Genome Sequencing," Tarmizi stated here on Monday.

The minister explained that even so, examinations using the RT-PCR method and antigen test kits were still necessary to detect early transmission of COVID-19.

The early detection was deemed necessary to take immediate protective measures, she stated.

Tarmizi encouraged everyone to stay calm and to not panic to the point of making a dash to heath facilities when they are infected with the COVID-19 Omicron variant.

However, the minister still reminded people to be aware of Omicron's characteristic, which was to spread the fastest as compared to other variants of COVID-19.

Tarmizi noted that the fatality caused by the variant was less threatening. Thus, hospitals should be prioritized for people in dire need of it, such as those with severe or moderate symptoms.

The Health Ministry advised COVID-19 patients, with mild to no symptoms, to self-isolate at home or to undergo quarantine at integrated isolation facilities by utilizing remote health consultation services.

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Translator: Andi Firdaus, Mecca Yumna
Editor: Sri Haryati
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