by Adwaith Hariharan
A 3D model of the COVID variant omicron Image Credit: NBC
On November 24th, 2021, the first case of a new COVID variant was reported to be first identified in Botswana and South Africa. Since then, the variant, now known as Omicron, (variant B.1.1.529) has taken over the world in a mere two months. It has caused a rapid rise in new cases, causing hospitals to be slammed with sick patients.
What do we know about Omicron?
Omicron has been categorized as a variant of concern, and currently, a lot is unknown. It’s certain that omicron is more contagious than earlier alpha and delta variants. Its effects, however, have been reported to be less severe, as most people have reported mild symptoms. This could very likely be because the surveyed subjects were previously vaccinated against COVID-19. According to CDC, the Omicron variant is highly prolific, spreading very easily to vaccinated individuals. Omicron currently has over 50 different mutations, 30 of them just in the spike protein itself, thereby increasing the likelihood of the spread of the infection. As a result, research has indicated that there are some breakthrough cases with relation to vaccination, but only a meager percentage of them have shown progression to a severe case. However, it is important to consider individual factors, such as age and current medical conditions, which can either increase or decrease the likelihood of contracting omicron.
What are scientists doing to understand more about Omicron?
As of right now, the WHO is currently collaborating with researchers worldwide to gain a better understanding of the omicron variant. Scientists are conducting multiple studies to conclude:
How transmissible, or how easily does omicron spread among people, compared to earlier variants like alpha and delta?
How severe cases of Infection and Re-Infection with omicron are?
How effective are current vaccines are against omicron?
How effective current treatments are in relation to managing an omicron infection?
What can I do to stay safe from Omicron?
For the last two years, COVID-19, as all viruses do, has evolved from its original form into different variants. As long as it exists, it will continue to spread. The best way to prevent new variants from appearing is to prevent or limit the spread as much as possible. Some basic ways this can be achieved include:
Maintaining a distance of three feet (one meter) from other people
Wear a mask in public spaces
Open windows to increase ventilation
Cough or sneeze into your elbow or a tissue
Wash and sanitize your hands often
Get vaccinated
Sources
Omicron variant: What we know - and don't know. (2021, December 23). Retrieved February 4, 2022, from https://www.nbcnews.com/science/science-news/omicron-covid-variant-what-to-know-rcna8752
Omicron variant: What you need to know. (n.d.). Retrieved February 04, 2022, from https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/variants/omicron-variant.html
Read, Z. (2021, December 20). What do I need to know about the omicron variant? Retrieved February 4, 2022, from https://whyy.org/articles/what-do-we-know-about-omicron-today/
Renton, A., Macaya, M., & Hayes, M. (2021, December 29). Coronavirus pandemic and omicron variant news. Retrieved February 4, 2022, from https://www.cnn.com/world/live-news/omicron-variant-coronavirus-news-12-28-21/index.html
Zimmer, C., & Jacobs, A. (2021, November 30). Omicron: What we know about the new coronavirus variant. Retrieved February 4, 2022, from https://www.nytimes.com/article/omicron-coronavirus-variant.html