BY DIRAMAKINI
THE Ministry of Health informs members of the public that since May 2022, Botswana has been experiencing a surge in COVID-19 infections as a result of the fifth wave, which the country has now entered.
COVID-19 infection waves are generally caused by new variants that emerge in the course of time.
The fifth wave, currently experienced in Botswana and elsewhere in the region and abroad, has been caused by the Omicron variant, mainly through its two sub lineages of BA.4 and BA.5. The increase in cases affects all parts of the country.
As a result of this fifth wave, there has been some increase in COVID-19 related mortality and hospitalization in Botswana. However, the numbers have been relatively low and have so far not overwhelmed any of our health facilities.
Although some countries have now reached their fifth wave peak and have started recording lower cases, Botswana is yet to reach its peak. The ministry continues to closely monitor the situation.
In addition to following all COVID-19 protocols, the ministry advises all COVID-19 unvaccinated Batswana and residents of this country, to get vaccinated, and take booster shots, when due. This is important for them to continue benefitting from the protection these vaccines provide, especially against severe disease, hospitalizations and death;
