First Omicron XE variant reported in New Zealand

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• Apr 23, 2022 | Pratiksha

According to the report, this is the first documented finding of the Omicron XE variety in New Zealand. The person, who is currently isolated at home, arrived in New Zealand 

Digital Desk: New Zealand's first case of Omicron XE variant was reported at the border, according to a statement released by the Ministry of Health on Saturday. The XE version of Omicron has been confirmed in a person who has travelled to New Zealand from another country, according to the government.

According to the report, this is the first documented finding of the Omicron XE variety in New Zealand. The person, who is currently isolated at home, arrived in New Zealand on April 19 and was tested on April 20, according to the government. The XE variation was later validated by whole-genome sequencing.

"XE has been spreading overseas, and its arrival in New Zealand is not unexpected," said the ministry. Meanwhile, the country reported 19 deaths from Covid, with 7,930 community cases and 494 hospitalizations on Saturday.

In addition, the ministry reported that 55 additional instances of Covid had been discovered near the New Zealand border. Since the start of the epidemic, New Zealand has reported 875,794 confirmed Covid cases.

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As the country is going through Anzac long weekend, the ministry has warned people to take health measures to protect themselves from the virus. "Firstly, be up to date with vaccinations. Secondly, wear a mask. And thirdly, stay home and avoid others if you're unwell," said the ministry.

New Zealand is currently in the Covid Protection Framework's orange settings, which allow for unlimited meetings.