Namibia has not reported any case of the new variant B. 1.1. 529 now known as "Omicron" discovered in South Africa, Botswana and Hong Kong. The World Health Organisation has declared Omicron as a variant of concern. In a media release, the Executive Director in the Ministry of Health Ben Nangombe says, a lot remains unknown about the new variant which is however said to have multiple mutations. Nangombe stated that the Ministry is however on high alert and is closely monitoring the new variant. He in the meantime reminded the public to remain calm and to practice all COVID-19 preventative measures. The UK and Australia have temporarily suspended flights from a number of Southern African countries including Namibia as a result of the new variant.