British COVID-19 Variant Spreads to 7 Regions in Morocco, Raising Lockdown Concerns

In a statement, the Ministry of Health indicated that the full genome sequencing has confirmed the presence of signature mutations of the variant. To date, 89 B.1.1.7 (British Variant) strains have been assigned, and no other Variant of Concern (VOC) has been confirmed in Morocco. Although the ministry did not specify the regions concerned, it points out that in addition to the specific mutations of the detected variants, new mutations are regularly detected but without clinical or epidemiological impact.

The National Consortium for SARS-CoV2 Genomic Surveillance remains on alert to inform the health authorities of the genetic evolution of the circulating Covid strains, and on the possible presence of an indigenous variant with an impact on public health. Citizens are invited to respect the health measures to limit the spread of the virus within the community.