Health ministry to set up nationwide surveillance network for COVID-19 mutations, Kikilias says
File photo: Nοσηλεύονται 36 ασθενείς COVID-19, εκ των οποίων οι 40 σε σοβαρή κατάσταση. Photo via CNA
ΣΧΕΤΙΚΑ ΑΡΘΡΑ
Responding to scientists’ concerned over the mutated strains of SARS-CoV-2, the health ministry is proceeding to establish a nationwide surveillance and alert network that aims to reinforce and better coordinate the genomic surveillance of the virus, Health Minister Vassilis Kikilias said on Friday, after a chairing a meeting on the issue at the ministry.
Other participants at the meeting were the head of the scientific council of the Biomedical Research Foundation of the Athens’ Academy, Dimitris Thanos, the president of the National Public Health Organisation (NPHO) Panagiotis Arkoumaneas and epidemiology professors Sotiris Tsiodras, Giorgos Sourvinos, Dimitris Paraskevis and Ghikas Magiorkinis.
In statements, Kikilias referred to the importance of the network to track mutations, in order to have that accurate epidemiological data that will lead to a correct epidemiological analysis, which will help the government make decisions for the protection of public health and the citizens.
There have been 26 confirmed cases involving mutated COVID-19 strains detected so far but additional suspected cases are under investigation, with the results to be announced soon.
Source: ANA – MPA
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Meeting at the health ministry on the issue of coronavirus mutations