There is an increasing presence of the BA.5 Omicron sub variant in recent samples, according to Chief Medical Officer Dr. Roshan Parasram who says 41% of samples tested last week were BA.5.

Still, the BA.2 remains the most dominant variant in Trinidad and Tobago at this time.

Noting that statistics show patients who are reinfected are those who contracted new variants, the CMO underscored the importance of taking booster shots to strengthen protection in the long run.

“Another element of people being reinfected is waning immunity over time and most of the studies have shown that after a primary series, a booster should be had after six months and after your first booster, especially for vulnerables, you go four to six months for a second booster.”

“So, the booster programme is extremely important. It may not completely prevent infection, but certainly, it will prevent severe disease outcomes in terms of morbidity and mortality to related to it,” he added.