Albanian health authorities fear the Omicron variant of Coronavirus is already present and circulating in the country and they will send samples to laboratories abroad for testing.

Speaking about Omicron, Health Minister Ogerta Manastirliu said the Institute of Public Health will send samples abroad to see whether the new variant has diffused in Albania. She told health officials to be alert and ready to deal with the latest mutation of coronavirus.

The minister also appealed for immediate and all-inclusive vaccination as the only way to slow down massive infections.