The Omicron variant is on the rise in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, Health Minister Ali Pilli has announced.

Pilli noted that as a result of studies on COVID-19 positive cases using Omicron detection kits, 29 individuals were detected to have the Omicron variant in the country.

He said that the Omicron variant is currently detected in young people which most are asymptomatic adding that those with symptoms showed signs of upper respiratory tract infection.

Pilli warned the public to stay away from crowded places as it is not yet known how the variant will progress in the coming days.

Emphasizing the importance of COVID-19 booster shots in the prevention against the Omicron variant, Pilli urged those who have not yet been vaccinated to get vaccinated and those who are due for their booster shots to get them done immediately.

The Health Minister added that alongside getting vaccinated following the measures announced by the ministry and wearing your mask, abiding by social distance and hygiene rules in crowded places are the most important factors in preventing the spread of the Omicron variant.