Coronavirus Variant from Britain: Understanding Its Potential Severity and Possible Impact on Kazakhstan's Population
In light of the detection of the B.1.1.7 (British) variant of COVID-19 in neighbouring Russia, Kazakhstan faces an increased risk due to the country's significant cross-border travel and economic ties. This variant, known for its higher transmissibility, demands heightened vigilance and adaptive public health strategies.
Currently, children are not considered a high-risk group for the British strain. However, it is important to note that the strain has been found in people of all ages. The B.1.1.7 variant spreads faster than the original virus and is significantly more infectious than previous versions. Despite this, the disease caused by the British strain does not seem to change.
The spread of the British strain is a global concern, with the strain identified in Russia named B-117. If the new strain has arrived in Kazakhstan, it is likely to be more contagious. To combat this, measures to prevent COVID-19, such as wearing masks and maintaining social distance, should be strengthened.
Kazakhstan's national development and health strategies focus on strengthening prevention of communicable diseases, increasing public awareness, promoting healthy lifestyles, and expanding vaccination coverage. The country has experience implementing lockdowns and other non-pharmaceutical interventions during earlier phases of the pandemic. However, there is no current evidence that specific measures targeting the B.1.1.7 variant have been detailed in national policy documents.
To address this, it is recommended to intensify genomic surveillance to detect and monitor the spread of new variants, including B.1.1.7, especially at border regions and major cities. Stricter entry requirements for travelers from regions with confirmed B.1.1.7 cases should be implemented, including mandatory testing and quarantine protocols to reduce importation risk.
Accelerated vaccination campaigns should also be prioritised, as increased transmissibility of the B.1.1.7 variant makes achieving high population immunity even more urgent. Reinforcement of public communication about the risks of the new variant, the importance of vaccination, mask-wearing, hand hygiene, and physical distancing is also crucial.
Ensuring hospitals and clinics are prepared for potential increases in cases, with adequate supplies, staff, and protocols for managing higher patient volumes, is essential. Social protection for vulnerable populations should be maintained and expanded to support compliance with public health directives.
As the epidemiological situation evolves, continuous monitoring and flexible policy adjustments will be key. Kazakhstan should leverage its established public health infrastructure and social protection mechanisms, while rapidly adapting to the specific threat posed by the B.1.1.7 variant. Strengthening border controls, genomic surveillance, vaccination, and public communication are essential to protect the population and prevent healthcare system strain.
Science and health-and-wellness are crucial in combating the spread of the B.1.1.7 variant of COVID-19, particularly in Kazakhstan, where there is an increased risk due to cross-border travel and economic ties with neighboring countries. Medical-conditions, including the transmissibility and infectiousness of the new strain, demand a thorough understanding to develop adaptive public health strategies, strengthen border controls, and prioritize vaccination efforts.
