Bengaluru/Bhubaneswar: The new coronavirus variant B.1.1.529 or Omicron has landed in the shores of India as two positive cases were reported in Karnataka on Thursday.

"Two cases of #Omicron Variant reported in the country so far. Both cases from Karnataka," said Lav Agarwal, Joint Secretary, Union Health Ministry.

"Passengers arriving from 'at risk' countries need to undergo RT-PCR test on arrival. If found positive for COVID, they'll be treated under clinical management protocol. If tested negative they'll follow, home quarantine for 7 days," Agarwal added.

"Two cases of #Omircron detected in Karnataka so far through genome sequencing effort of INSACOG consortium of 37 laboratories established by the Ministry of Health. We need not panic, but awareness is absolutely essential. COVID apt behaviour is required," said Balram Bhargava, DG ICMR.

In view of the rising concern over Omicron, the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) on Wednesday had released a new set of guidelines adopting a risk-based approach. The new protocols will be in place from December 1 until further orders.

As per the revised protocols, travellers from certain countries, based on the evolving epidemiological situation, shall follow the additional measures.

A total of 6 persons were found positive for Covid-19 travelling from 'at risk' countries as of Wednesday.

A total of 11 international flights have landed at various airports across the nation coming from 'at risk' countries since the implementation of the revised guidelines in the wake of new Covid variant Omicron. These flights carrying 3,476 passengers landed from 'at risk' countries from midnight to 4 p.m. on Wednesday, said the Union health ministry.

(With IANS inputs)