New Delhi:  Two cases of new coronavirus variant Omicron have been detected in Karnataka so far through the genome sequencing effort of the INSACOG consortium of 37 laboratories established by the Ministry of Health, said officials during briefing over the COVID-19 situation in the country.

Union Health Ministry officials said, " All their contacts [Omicron cases in Karnataka] have been identified and they are under monitoring. The protocol is being followed", said Lav Agarwal, Joint Secretary, Union Health Ministry.

Passengers arriving from 'at risk' countries need to undergo RT-PCR test on arrival. If found positive for COVID, they would be treated under clinical management protocol. If tested negative they'll follow, home quarantine for 7 days. 

Read: https://24x7liveindia.com/date-of-resumption-of-international-flights-to-be-notified-in-due-course

As per the latest data by the Health Ministry, around 29 countries have reported 373 cases of Omicron Variant so far.

"Surge in cases being noted across the world on an overall basis, Europe reported 70% of the cases in the world in last one week. In the week ending 28 Nov, around 2.75 Lakh new cases and  over 31,000 deaths were reported in the European region", added Lav Agarwal. 

Asked about ban on international flights, booster dose and pediatric vaccination, VK Paul, Member-Health, NITI Aayog, said, "The Omicron variant of COVID19 is being carefully examined, will take decisions on the basis of it, it's an ongoing discussion within our technical and scientific circles".

"Increased COVID-19 vaccine uptake need of the hour, do not delay in getting fully vaccinated", added VK Paul.