Egypt detects first two cases of new Coronavirus variant "EG 5.2"

CAIRO - 22 August 2023: Egypt announced on Tuesday that two cases of the recently emerged coronavirus variant "EG 5.2" have been detected. Cases of the new variant have already been identified in several countries worldwide.

Egypt's Ministry of Health revealed that tests from centers monitoring influenza-like illnesses, severe respiratory infections, and pneumonia confirmed the presence of the "Omicron EG 5.2" strain of the coronavirus in two patients. The ministry clarified that the clinical symptoms observed in these patients were mild, and both individuals are on their path to recovery.

The ministry also emphasized that the symptoms of the "EG 5.2" variant are minor, and that there are no medical recommendations to undertake any additional measures at this time.

Furthermore, the official guidelines continue to advise vaccination with booster doses, especially for those most vulnerable to the disease such as the elderly, individuals with chronic diseases, and those with conditions that impact the body's immune response.

Continued hand and surface sanitization, using masks in crowded or poorly ventilated areas, and advising those with respiratory symptoms to avoid mixing with others, remain vital preventive measures.