The new subvariant of Omicron believed to be more immune-evasive has been detected in the Philippines identified as BQ.1.
The Department of Health said that the cases were detected from the latest genome sequencing conducted by the Philippine Genome Center and the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine from October 28 to November 18.
“What we know so far is that it is more transmissible and highly immune-evasive compared to the other sub-variants of Omicron,” Vergeire said in a media briefing.
The new subvariant was detected in Cordillera Administrative Region, Ilocos Region, Calabarzon, the Central Visayas, and Metro Manila.
Vergeire reminded the public to stay cautious due to the threat of new COVID-19 variants.
“It is high time for us to remember that yes we are aware that there are these variants and sub-variants being detected in the country but we should also be aware that whatever variants or sub-variants that may be detected, our protocols for us to get protection and for us to protect our families are all the same,” she said.
