MARIGOT: After sequencing the samples, two cases of Omicron variants have been confirmed, one in Guadeloupe and the other in St. Martin.
The case involved a person from Canada, present in St. Martin, who tested positive for the virus in a PCR test on December 9. She was immediately isolated. The second person (unvaccinated) resides in Guadeloupe. There is no evidence of travel in the days preceding the positive PCR test. This is of concern because it could indicate the existence of an indigenous circulation. The usual procedures have been implemented: the search for contacts is continued by the ARS, the health insurance, and Santé Publique France.
Several samples suggesting the omicron variant are being sent to the National Reference Centre in Paris for sequencing. They concern suspected cases from Guadeloupe, St. Martin, and St. Barthélemy. The Omicron variant is extremely contagious. It seems to be 2 to 3 times more contagious than the Delta variant. Vaccination and barrier measures are the only solutions to curb the 5th wave.
