Two imported Covid-19 cases tested positive for the Omicron strain on Thursday (Dec 2), according to the Ministry of Health (MOH).
When they arrived in Singapore on Wednesday, both instances were isolated and had no contact with anyone in the community.
"At this time, there is no indication of any community transmission from these instances," the MOH stated in a statement on Thursday.
Both individuals are presently recuperating in isolation wards at the National Centre for Infectious Diseases, according to the ministry. They are completely immunized and exhibit modest symptoms such as a cough and a sore throat.
On Wednesday, both cases landed in Singapore on Singapore Airlines flight SQ479 from Johannesburg.
The first instance involves a Singapore permanent citizen, 44, who was traveling from Mozambique and transited in Johannesburg. On November 29, he tested negative for Covid-19 in his pre-departure test in Mozambique.
The second example is a 41-year-old Singaporean lady who arrived in Singapore from South Africa.
She had tested negative for Covid-19 in her pre-departure test on November 29 in Johannesburg.
"They had undertaken a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test upon arrival in Singapore and were promptly transported to a stay-home notice (SHN) specialized facility to be separated while awaiting the results of their test," MOH added.
According to the ministry, their PCR test findings confirmed the existence of S-gene Target Failure, which may be connected with the Omicron variation.
According to the Ministry of Health, the National Public Health Laboratory is performing whole genome sequencing to determine whether the two patients had contracted the Omicron variation. According to MOH, the remaining 19 passengers on the same aircraft tested negative for Covid-19, and contact tracing is underway.
Upon arrival, all 19 were quarantined at authorized facilities and subjected to a PCR test.
When their 10-day SHN is over, they'll have to perform another PCR test.
Other close contacts will likewise be quarantined for 10 days and will be subjected to PCR testing at the beginning and conclusion of their isolation, according to the MOH.
"All individuals suspected or confirmed to have the Omicron variant will be transferred to NCID for isolation and clinical care." "Home recovery will not be applicable," the government clarified.