Health Ministry: No New COVID-19 Variant Detected in Egypt

Dr. Hossam Hosni, Head of COVID-19 Scientific Committee at the Ministry of Health and Population, stated that concerns about new COVID-19 variants are unwarranted. He explained that the emergence of variants is not new but rather a natural characteristic of the virus's evolution since the beginning of the pandemic.

Dr. Hosni added that a new variant is announced globally every few months, noting that the currently recognized global variant, which has not yet been reported in Egypt, began spreading worldwide in June.

He emphasized that seasonal illnesses are common at the start of winter, pointing out that the current wave of widespread colds is normal for this time of year. This is due to the spread of various viruses, including adenovirus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), influenza, and older COVID-19 variants, which does not necessarily indicate the presence of a new COVID-19 variant in Egypt.

He stated, "COVID-19 has not disappeared; it exists worldwide and continues to mutate every few months, which is normal." He clarified that no new COVID-19 variant has been reported in Egypt so far and that the symptoms of infection remain similar to those seen at the start of the pandemic.

Regarding the severity of the virus, Dr. Hosni explained that COVID-19 is no longer as deadly as it was during the early waves of the pandemic. It has become significantly weaker, with fewer complications due to its numerous mutations. The virus now primarily affects the upper respiratory tract.

He outlined the current symptoms, which include nasal congestion, runny nose, cold-like symptoms, sore throat, headache, and mild fever. While severe respiratory issues, such as pneumonia, have not disappeared entirely, they have become very rare.