OMICRON (B.1.1.529) OF SARS-CoV-2 DESIGNATED AS A VARIANT OF CONCERN

Edited by, JASPER VICTORIA

The WHO  declares the Omicron (B.1.1.529) variant of SARS-CoV-2 as a variant of concern on November 26, 2021.

The first case was reported on November 24, 2021 from South Africa, after steeply increased infection peaks in the recent weeks.

The specimen confirmed of the first known case of the variant dates back to November 9, 2021. The variant has been found to undergone a large number of mutations and suggests to carry an increased risk of re-infection, than those of the others. 

Almost, all the provinces of South Africa are facing a significant increase of cases of this variant. 

The Technical Advisory Group on SARS-CoV-2 Virus Evaluation is in way on further evaluating the variant to study regarding its nature and characteristics which might help the control or management of the variant.

The WHO also advices the nations to strictly and continually follow the COVID-19 prevention protocols such as wearing masks, maintaining social distancing, sanitizing frequently, etc.