Omicron is a “serious matter” and it poses a great threat to the public, reiterated a public health expert on Sunday, Jan. 9.
In an interview over DZRH, public health expert and former National Task Force (NTF) against COVID-19 special adviser Dr. Anthony “Tony” Leachon pointed out that no one knows when the pandemic will end.
He stressed that the public should continue adhering to the minimum public health standards to prevent another surge in infections.
The statement came after Fr. Nicanor Austriaco, a molecular biologist and an OCTA Research fellow said that the Omicron is the beginning of the end of coronavirus disease (COVID-19).
“Huwag natin seryosohin. Walang nakakaalam kung ito na ang end. Whatever it is, this particular Omicron can still kill kung marami ang cases. It is adventurous para sabihin na magpahawa tayo to get natural immunity (Do not take it seriously. No one knows if this is the end. Whatever it is, this particular Omicon can still kill if the cases are high. It is adventurous to say that we should get infected to get natural immunity),” said Leachon.
Leachon likewise said that the “only correct way of getting the immunity against COVID-19” is through vaccinations and boosters.
“That will drive people into complacency. This is a serious matter. Any illness mild, moderate, or severe can cause problems,” he added.