The Minister of Health, Benjamin Hounkpatin, has responded to the alleged emergence of the omicron XBB variant of Covid-19. In a statement dated September 7, 2023, the minister issued a formal denial.
“No cases of the omicron XBB variant of Covid-19 have been detected in Benin,” is the essence of Minister Benjamin Hounkpatin’s response. He stated, “I urge you not to give any credence to these rumors that are likely to create groundless panic.”
As a result, I invite the entire population to remain calm, composed, and to continue with their daily activities as usual.
Benjamin Hounkpatin Furthermore, the minister reiterated that “infection prevention measures within healthcare facilities are still in place, and vaccination remains the most reliable means of prevention, especially against Covid-19.”
It should be noted that the rumor of the emergence of the Omicron variant arose following the publication of an information note by a local entity. This note advised its staff to take measures against the said variant.
