Community transmission of the quick-spreading Omicron variant of the coronavirus is now occurring in Bangladesh, said health officials yesterday -- in an acknowledgement that forebodes an unprecedented surge in cases in the days ahead.

Terming the rise in Omicron infections “alarming”, Health Minister Zahid Maleque today said if this upward trend continues, there will be no space left in the hospitals for patients.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has directed to lower the minimum age to 50 for Covid-19 vaccine booster dose.

A mobile court in Shahbagh conducted drives from 12pm today and fined those violating the restrictions imposed by the government to curb the spread of Omicron variant.

The Omicron variant is infecting women more than men, said health officials yesterday.