Positive case for the Omicron variant identified in Reunion, the first in France

The first positive case of the Omicron variant was observed in France, on the island of Reunion. Other “possible” cases are still being studied.

A positive case of the Omicron variant of the coronavirus, which is spreading worldwide, has been identified on Reunion Island, a researcher from the Joint Unit for Tropical Island Infectious Process Research (PIMIT) announced Tuesday. This is the first positive case identified in France.

The patient who tested positive was a “53-year-old man” who had traveled to Mozambique and a “stop in South Africa” ​​before coming to Reunion, microbiologist Patrick Mavingoy said on the airwaves at Reunion La 1 Erie. And the scientist announced that the man who was placed in solitary confinement and his entourage “suffers from muscle pain and fatigue.”

Five more negative cases

The microbiologist said the PIMIT test was mobilized “urgently” on Sunday evening “for a sequence of six tests.” The scientist added, “The results arrived a few hours ago (…) there is a positive case.” The other five samples are negative.

Patrick Mavingway said health authorities at both the local and national levels were immediately notified.

Eight ‘possible’ cases

This information comes as the Ministry of Health said in a statement on Sunday that it is “watching with particular interest the overseas territories of Reunion and Mayotte that have direct or indirect connection (with the seven countries)” in Africa and Austral with which it has air links. It has been suspended since Friday.

On Sunday, the Minister of Health, Olivier Veran, announced the discovery of eight “probable” cases of Omicron carriers in France.