The Minister made the revelation during his September 30, 2021, COVID-19 update on the management of the pandemic in the VI.

“This week, the Ministry of Health received reports from CARPHA of genetic typing of samples collected in late August. Of the samples sent for genetic typing, four were reported positive for Mu - a variant of interest AND one was reported positive for Delta – a variant of concern,” Hon Malone revealed.

He said what that means is that two variants are now circulating in the Territory as authorities grapple to stay in control of the pandemic.

Hon Carvin Malone revealed that additional test samples have been sent for genetic typing and the results will be reported in the next two weeks when CARPHA delivers the results.

Mu believed to be able to escape immunity - Hon Malone

“The Mu variant is thought to be able to escape immunity and we are seeing in this cluster is a large number of persons who are vaccinated and also positive,” he said.

The Minister revealed that additional test samples have been sent for genetic typing and the results will be reported in the next two weeks when CARPHA delivers the results.

“It is understandable, and the Ministry must move swiftly and decisively to ensure that any potential situation is curtailed. In a proactive measure, a number of cases and their close contacts, including vaccinated persons, have been quarantined.”

Hon Malone reminded the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with the authorities as all measures taken are aimed at reducing hospitalization, avoiding fatalities and to facilitate the complete re-opening of our borders.