Portugal: Omicron mutation predominant – Deaths and hospitalizations stable

The Omicron variant became the dominant one in Portugal, at a time when the country recorded a record number of new cases of Covid-19 since the end of January, the General Directorate of Health announced.

“The Omicron variant is already predominant in Portugal” with an estimated incidence rate of 61.5% on December 22, according to a statement from the Directorate-General for Health, which states, however, that mortality and hospitalization remain stable.

Yesterday, Portugal recorded 11 deaths and 12,943 new cases in the last 24 hours, a record from January 29, 2021. The country was hit earlier this year by a severe wave of the epidemic that flooded the health system.

To address the increase in cases, Portugal has adopted a series of new measures to control the epidemic, including mandatory distance work, presentation of tests for participation in spectacles or sporting events, and the closure of bars and discos.

The Portuguese government reinstated several health measures in early December by extending brand use, vaccination certification and diagnostic tests.

To reduce contact after the festive gatherings, the government announced on November 25 the extension of the school holiday and that distance work will be mandatory in the first week of January.

Portugal, one of the most vaccinated countries in the world, also requires a negative test for travelers arriving in its territory, including those who have been vaccinated.

Source: AMPE