Kraken arrives in Serbia

(Patria) - The presence of Kraken, a subvariant of the Omicron coronavirus, which is expanding worldwide, has been confirmed in Serbia.

The World Health Organization (WHO) warns that this is the most transmissible variant of the virus to date.

Epidemiologist at the Clinical Center of Serbia, Dr. Vesna Mioljević, told RTS that there is no reason for panic, and that this is a new subvariant, not a new virus. She added that such mutations will occur in the future.

Dr. Mioljević stated that the first case of the Omicron subvariant, better known as Kraken, has been registered in Serbia.

- It was first registered in America in late October and November. It led to an increase in the number of infected and hospitalized people there, but without an increased number of patients with severe clinical pictures. Some doctors also linked the increased number to the holidays that were taking place at the time - Mioljević added.

She emphasized that there is no reason for excessive worry and panic.

- This is a new subvariant, not a new virus. It arose from a mutation, and I am sure that such mutations will occur in the future - Mioljević said.

She stated that based on the signs and symptoms of infection, it is impossible to determine which virus is involved.

- In addition to the virus that causes COVID, we have an increased number of other respiratory infections - influenza viruses, adenoviruses, respiratory syncytial viruses - Mioljević said.

She also pointed out that there is an increased number of children with chickenpox, and that an epidemic of measles has been registered in Serbia.

- Many viruses that initially cause respiratory tract symptoms are circulating in Serbia, so it is difficult to distinguish them, except through testing, of course - said the doctor.

When asked what causes a more severe clinical picture, COVID or the flu, the doctor emphasized that any virus can cause a severe clinical picture in those with weakened immunity, as well as in patients with chronic heart, lung, and kidney diseases, and in the elderly.