The NCIPD has successfully analyzed 74 clinical samples with SARS-CoV-2 by next-generation whole genome sequencing. The samples were collected from patients with COVID-19 between 21.11-14.12.2022 and were sent from 19 different medical institutions in 16 districts of the country.

The Omicron variant was detected in all clinical samples and the proportion was as follows: BA.2 (1.4%), BA.5.x (32.4%), BE.x/BF.x (35.1%), BN.x (5.4%), BQ.1 (4.1%), BQ.1.1 (12.2%), BQ.1.1.3 (1.4%), BQ.1.4 (1.4%), BQ.1.5 (1.4%), CL.1 (2.7%) and XBB.1 (2.7%).

The NCIPD continues to monitor the spread of SARS-CoV-2 in the country, with a focus on VOC, altered virulence and immunogenicity that are of increased public health importance.