In Uzbekistan, it is not planned to introduce strict lockdown measures due to the detection of the omicron strain and the spike in the cases, announced first deputy of the Sanitary and Epidemiological Welfare and Public Health Service Kholmamat Norboyev at a press conference.

“For not imposing strict restrictions, we need to get vaccinated,” he said.

“The vaccine does not protect against the omicron strain. The vaccinated tend to have milder disease. To avoid infection, we must reduce contact between people in public places and strictly follow hygiene restrictions,” said Kholmamat Norboev.

The new strain was discovered on January 7, but it was announced two days later, because confirmatory tests and consultations from foreign colleagues were required, the first deputy head of the service said.

According to Kholmamat Norboev, 200 people who arrived on the same flight have been quarantined, of which 130 are citizens of Uzbekistan and 70 are foreigners.

Director of the Center for Professional Development of Medical Workers, Khabibulla Akilov, noted with reference to the data of the World Health Organization that 98% of those infected with omicron are being treated at home and 2% in hospitals. “Because this type of virus mainly affects the upper respiratory tract,” he said.

Zabibulla Akilov added that mass events in the country have not been canceled, but control over compliance with sanitary and hygienic requirements will be upped. “However, depending on the epidemiological situation, the requirements may be harshened. Time will tell, ”he said.

The representative of the Ministry of Health Umidulla Riskiev said that today there are 16 medical institutions specialized in the treatment of coronavirus infection in the country. If necessary, this number can be increased to 132, and the number of beds - up to 32 thousand, he said.