DOH Confirms Detection Of 2 Mutations Of SARS-CoV-2 In Central Visayas

The DOH confirmed the detection of two mutations of SARS-CoV-2 in Central Visayas.

The Department of Health (DOH) on Thursday officially confirmed the detection of two mutations of SARS-CoV-2 — a virus causing COVID-19 — in Central Visayas.

This, after samples from patients were sent to the Philippine Genome Center (PGC) in order to undergo genome sequencing.

In a statement obtained by ABS-CBN News, the Department of Health said that the DOH and the University of the Philippines – Philippine Genome Center (UP-PGC) confirmed the detection of two SARS-CoV-2 mutations of potential clinical significance in samples sequenced last week from Region 7 following the enhanced genomic biosurveillance in the Philippines.

The Department of Health also said that they’re investigating the said mutations and had yet to determine whether these would have significant public health implications.

READ ALSO | DOH7: PGC Detects COVID-19 “Variant Of Concern” In Cebu City

However, the Department of Health said that the DOH and UP-PGC emphasized that the currently available data were insufficient to conclude that the SARS-CoV-2 mutations found in the local sample would have significant public health implications.

In addition, the Department of Health further reiterated that viruses naturally underwent mutations as they reproduced, both within the human body and when they’re transmitted from one person to another.

Meanwhile, the Department of Health Central Visayas (DOH7) said that the UP-PGC had detected COVID-19 “variant of concern” in Cebu City.

Dr. Mary Jean Loreche, the Department of Health Central Visayas spokesperson and chief pathologist, said that the UP-PGC had detected two COVID-19 “mutations” in samples in Cebu City.

Dr. Junjie Zuasola, the head of the DOH7’s Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit, called the said variant “homegrown”.

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