KATHMANDU: A new sub-variant of the Omicron strain of COVID-19 has been confirmed in five individuals in Nepal, according to the Epidemiology and Disease Control Division (EDCD).

Chief of the EDCD, Dr. Chandra Bal Jha, informed that the new sub-variant was identified through gene sequencing tests conducted at the National Public Health Laboratory.

The tests were performed on samples collected from 14 individuals who tested positive for COVID-19 between June 5 and June 12.

While the newly identified sub-variant is known to be highly transmissible, the World Health Organization (WHO) has already stated that it is not considered to be significantly more severe or fatal than previous variants.

Following the detection, health experts have urged the public to maintain necessary precautions, similar to those taken in previous waves of the pandemic.

According to EDCD data, a total of 167 COVID-19 cases have been confirmed in Nepal since mid-December 2024.