Omicron Spreading in Sarajevo Canton: VTP Rule to be Applied in Hotels and Ski Resorts

SARAJEVO, (Patria) - At the end of December, KCUS confirmed 10 cases of the Omicron Covid-19 strain in the Sarajevo Canton. In recent days, an increase in new cases has been recorded, which is linked to this strain, which is more contagious compared to earlier variants.

In a letter sent to the Minister of Health, Haris Vranić, by the Director of the Sarajevo Canton Public Health Institute, Aida Pilav, it is stated that preliminary evidence published by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicate an increased risk of re-infection with Covid-19 with this variant, compared to other variants.

“For most people, especially vaccinated individuals, Omicron causes mild illness that can resemble a cold,” the letter states.

The most common symptoms are: cough, fatigue or muscle aches, stuffy and/or runny nose. Unlike the initial variants, loss of smell and taste are rare.

“Due to its rapid spread in the community, the Omicron variant finds individuals with weakened immunity, older vulnerable individuals, and causes more severe clinical forms in them. Given the scale and speed of infection, a large number of patients will appear in healthcare facilities, which could primarily impact primary healthcare, and subsequently lead to a gradual filling of hospital capacities,” the letter states.

Published research on protection against the Omicron strain after vaccination has shown that a “booster” dose of mRNA (Pfizer and Moderna) vaccines provides about 75% protection.

The Institute urges adherence to the 3C rule (avoiding enclosed spaces, crowds, and avoiding close contact for extended periods).

“Due to confirmed Covid-19 cases among foreign nationals in laboratories in Sarajevo Canton, and especially due to the arrival of a larger number of guests from countries with uncontrolled spread of the Omicron strain, we advise the use of V-vaccinated, P-recovered, T-tested certificates in hotels and facilities around ski resorts,” the letter states.