A sub-variant of Omicron, called BA.5, is now predominant in Bangladesh especially in Dhaka city as the country is witnessing the fourth wave of coronavirus for the last few weeks.

During the last six weeks (14 May to 24 June 2022), complete genome sequencing confirms that 51 coronavirus positive cases out of 52 were identified as BA.5 and one as BA.2, said a study of icddr,b.

Limited data indicate that the newer sub-variants caused fewer hospitalisations and deaths compared to previous ones. As part of the countrywide Covid-19 testing network, icddr,b has been testing Covid-19 patients and monitoring SARS-CoV-2 variants, it added.

The icddr,b said the Omicron variant in Bangladesh was first identified on 6 December 2021.