Hellenic National Public Health Organization (EODY) confirmed 5 new Omicron variants, bringing the total to 10 in Greece, while other suspicious cases for the mutation are being investigated. According to information, in addition to Attica and Crete, the map of the Omicron mutation now includes the Peloponnese.

Crete is under the “microscope” as the Omicron variant first appeared there – three cases have already been officially confirmed and announced. In Rethymno, the viral load of sewage increased by 258% in the week of December 6-12 compared to the previous one, and in Heraklion by 109% for the same period.

A clearer picture of the mutated strains is expected to be presented today in the weekly epidemiological report of EODY.

The European Center for Disease Prevention (ECDC) yesterday assessed as very high the possibility of further spread of the Omron variant in Europe and its dominance over the Delta by mid-February.

Meanwhile, the EU Summit has expressed concern about the Omicron mutation, as the continent prepares for winter.  European Commission President Ursul von der Layen said on Wednesday: “We are told that by mid-January, we should expect Omicron to be the new dominant variant in Europe.” Timing is of the essence, according to the EU official.

Although many EU countries are at the forefront of vaccination rates, nine EU countries have vaccination rates below 60%.

At the same time, concerns about whether the vaccines “erase” the negative effects of the Omicron mutation, have mobilised efforts to take supportive measures. However, the EU health agency ECDC warned on Wednesday that vaccines alone would not be enough now, as Omicron infections almost double every two days.

As part of the effort to control the coronavirus pandemic, Greece announced it would receive visitors from all countries only with the demonstration of negative molecular control (PCR) 48 hours, regardless of vaccination status or Covid passports. Excluded from the measure are travellers who have stayed abroad for less than 48 hours. The measure will take effect on the morning of Sunday, December 19.