Covid-19 Kraken variant discovered in Gibraltar
Saturday 14 January 2023 – 10:37 UTC The GHA and Gibraltar Public Health will continue to closely monitor the development of this strain
The Government of Gibraltar, as notified by Public Health Gibraltar, can confirm that the Kraken variant of COVID-19 has been detected in samples taken last week.
Public health surveillance indicates that the Kraken variant is not the predominant strain that caused the recent spike in cases in December, and there is a chance of a new wave of infections due to this variant, although the Omicron-related one has a greater ability to evade both natural, and acquired immunity.
However, there is no indication that it causes more severe illness or death.
GHA and Public Health Gibraltar will continue to closely monitor the development of this strain. The recommendation is to continue with the current level of enhanced response.
Mask wearing will still be required at St Bernard’s Hospital (SBH) and Residential Care Services (ERS). There are vaccine clinics at SBH every afternoon from 1pm to 4pm.
Testing is still recommended for anyone inquiring about symptoms of COVID-19 [e.g. high temperature, cough, muscle aches, sore throat and tiredness]. Lateral flow tests can be purchased from pharmacies and other retail outlets.
Those who test positive for COVID-19 in their lateral flow test should self-isolate at home and call 111. If 111 is deemed necessary, a confirmatory test will be arranged and appropriate advice given. LFTs must also be reported online.
Director of Public Health Helen Carter said: “We want to reassure the public that this is to be expected as we continue to navigate the pandemic. We need to continue testing and even if your test is negative, please stay home if you have symptoms of high fever and do not visit your loved ones in the ER and the emergency room.
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