The Covid-19 variant has not finished yet, and the new variant of corona ‘Omicron’ has arrived, which again raises fear of lockdown. Omicron, which is a new variant of corona first identified in South Africa, and has been announced a ‘variant of concern’ that means it has genetic changes that might impact transmissibility and how it responds to antibodies that are injected through vaccines.
Our today’s blog will highlight a few points regarding Omicron to aware people of this new variant of coronavirus. Let’s dive right in:
What is Omicron Covid Variant?
The scientific name of the Omicron Covid Variant is B.1.1.529, and the public started knowing about this variant when South African officials announced it to the WHO. According to the organization, Omicron has several mutations, and some of them are dangerous. As per prior evidence, there is an increased risk of re-infection with the Omicron variant.
However, health authorities or organizations should keep an eye on identifying which needs more attention than others. According to prior analysis, this new variant of Covid is highly infectious.
How does it Spread?
It is not clear yet whether the Omicron variant is more transmissible than other Covid variants or not. For example, it is not clear whether it spreads more easily from one person to another. A number of people are getting affected with Omicron in South Africa, but epidemiologic studies are under process to know if it is because of Omicron variant or other factors.
Are There Any Symptoms of Omicron?
According to scientists, it is difficult to say whether this variant is more dangerous than other variants or not. The National Institute for Communicable Disease (NICD) of South Africa has said that ‘no unusual symptoms’ have been recorded with the omicron variant.
Is Vaccine Effective on Omicron?
Currently, it has been said that omicron has several mutations, which is an extremely concerning factor not only for transmissibility but can also degrade the effectiveness of vaccines.
According to some doctors, vaccines may not work effectively on the new variant of corona ‘Omicron.’
What is the Response after Detecting Omicron?
After detecting omicron variant in South Africa, most major governments instituted travel takes action and bans to and from Southern Africa. Both Moderna and Pfizer have said that if their vaccines could not be effective against the new variant, then they can create and ship a modified vaccine within hundred days.
Current Tests’ Effectiveness
PCR tests are continually detecting infection, including infection with the new variant omicron. Studies are underway to determine whether there are other types of tests, including rapid antigen detection tests.
Studies under Process by WHO
World Health Organization is currently coordinating with researchers across the world to know more about Omicron. Studies include assessments of transmissibility, the effectiveness of vaccines, the severity of infections, and the effectiveness of treatments.
What Preventive Measures should be taken?
Apart from getting vaccinated, you must maintain distance from another person, wear a mask, and clean your hands, cover your face with a handkerchief while sneezing or coughing.
What’s Next?
According to experts, existing vaccines should be updated as they might be less effective on a new variant of the corona. Moderna has announced recently that the vaccine for the omicron variant could be ready by next year. In addition to this, the company’s CEO has claimed that existing vaccines might be less effective on the new variant.
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