Third Omicron Patient Detected in Hong Kong... "Asymptomatic Until Confirmation"

An article published in the Saturday edition of a South African newspaper on the 27th (local time) amid many countries around the world imposing effective lockdowns such as flight suspensions on South Africa, where the new COVID-19 variant 'Omicron' is spreading. The article, titled "The World is Closing Its Doors to South Africa," shows a photo of the empty Hong Kong airport. 2021.11.28 [Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunju Lee] The third patient infected with the new COVID-19 variant 'Omicron' has been reported in Hong Kong.

Hong Kong authorities announced on the 29th that a 37-year-old man who arrived from Nigeria on the 24th was confirmed to be infected with the Omicron variant the previous day.

The man, who was in hotel quarantine, was asymptomatic until he tested positive on the third day after arriving in Hong Kong, according to the authorities.

Earlier, two travelers staying at quarantine hotels in Hong Kong last week were found to be infected with the Omicron variant. Hong Kong health authorities stated that the virus may have spread through the air when a door was opened because a traveler from South Africa used a mask with a valve that had no filter and allowed easy exhalation.

The authorities said they will strengthen management of the two quarantine hotels where the Omicron-infected individuals stayed. Previously, the Hong Kong government banned entry from eight South African countries starting at midnight on the 27th to prevent the spread of Omicron. Hong Kong residents who have stayed in these countries must complete vaccination to board flights to Hong Kong and must quarantine for 21 days after arrival.