“We observed a significant change in the representation of the captured specific L452R mutation, indicating precisely the spread of the BA.4 or BA.5 subvariance, and we now achieve nearly 87 percent representation in the sample. Even the sequencing data, which tends to be delayed by about 14 days, significantly gradually reflects this development,” said Helena Jiřincová, head of SZ’s national reference laboratory.

The epidemics have been increasing since early June, when the daily addition to the weekday was around 200. Previously, they had been declining since February, when tens of thousands of infected people were added each day. Last week there were 1,000 to nearly 1,300 cases per day on weekdays. Compared to the previous week, it had almost doubled.

The ministry estimates that the number will continue to rise for a few more weeks. The number of infected people in hospitals has also increased, last week there were more than 200. However, there are still some people in serious condition.

Behind the current increase are the more infectious BA.4 and BA.5 submutations of the omicron coronavirus variant, which, according to experience from other European countries, have a moderate course.

“Immunity after experiencing illness may not be reliable protection against infection. Thus, important protection against the serious course of the disease is still provided by revaccination with so-called boosters, or of course basic two-dose vaccination for those who have not been vaccinated,” SZ said.

According to experts, there are significantly more infected people than those who test positive. Currently, most people who already have symptoms and are unwell undergo testing. At a press conference Friday, Deputy Health Minister Josef Pavlovic (Pirates) appealed to the public not to go out into the community if they are not feeling well, and to wear masks or respirators if going to medical facilities.