COVID-19 Omicron Variant

What is the Omicron variant?

The Omicron variant—first detected in Botswana and South Africa last November—has spread rapidly worldwide in recent weeks, outpacing previous variants of the coronavirus. While experts are still trying to understand the new variant, it's already triggering a surge of new cases. Omicron was initially identified by scientists due to its unique mix of over 50 different mutations. Other mutations identified are potentially aiding the virus in evading antibodies created by vaccines. Because of these mutations and the rising cases in South Africa, The World Health Organization labeled Omicron as a ’variant of concern’ on November 26, warning that the worldwide dangers posed by it were ’very high’. The Omicron variant has now been detected in over 90 countries.

Differences between Omicron and Delta

Faster Incubation Period

Research suggests that symptoms tend to show up earlier for the Omicron variant. While prior COVID variants prompted symptoms to appear after four or five days, it appears that the incubation period for Omicron is considerably shorter. Although data on COVID's newest variant is still limited, current findings in Norway found an average three-day timeframe between contact to the Omicron variant and the appearance of its symptoms.

Less severity but more transmittable

According to a large-scale preliminary study from South Africa, Omicron causes less severe illness in adults (but not in children). Another early study from Hong Kong discovered that Omicron develops less effectively in the lungs, perhaps resulting in a comparatively mild illness. However, considering how infectious and immune-evading Omicron are, scientists believe the total threat is ’likely to be extremely serious’.

FAQs about the Omicron Variant:

What are the symptoms?

Omicron is still a relatively new variant, so data and research on its symptoms are still scarce. However, early studies in London revealed that the most prevalent symptoms include a runny nose, headache, weariness, sneezing and a sore throat. It's also important to keep an eye out for the symptoms associated with previous variants, which include the following: fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, muscle or body aches, loss of taste or smell, congestion, nausea, and diarrhea.

How severe is it?

The decreased severity of Omicron is most likely due to the changes in the virus itself, along with high levels of protection (through vaccination or past exposure) that already have emerged in populations. According to a research report on December 21 by the National Institute for Communicable Diseases in Johannesburg, Omicron cases are 80 percent less likely to require hospitalization.

Are vaccines effective against Omicron?

Early laboratory investigations show that the new variant may be more resistant to vaccinations, though it is unlikely to be completely immune. However, further study is necessary to know what the early findings signify in real-world contexts. An investigation issued on December 14 by South Africa's top healthcare administrator indicated that two doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine were 70% effective at preventing hospitalization for people affected with Omicron. Additionally, booster shots may play an important role in combating the reduction in antibodies against it.

Sources:

Published January 23, 2022

Written by Skye Cabrera ~ Edited by Kristeen Patel ~ Graphics created by Vanessa Obra

COVID-19 Omicron Variant

Recent Posts

Comentarios