Omicron Variant – What is it?
Lots of talks are going on – almost everywhere – regarding the Omicron Variant. This is a newly-discovered variant and it may send jitters to some people if not fully discussed, given what the Delta variant caused to many a few weeks back.
We just saw a surge of Covid cases which coincided with the pronouncements that some people got infected with the Delta variant. And before we could be relieved from the anxiety brought about by the Delta variant, the Omicron Variant is coming into the fore.
So what do we know about the Omicron Variant so far, considering the fact that it is fairly new?
First thing that we need to know is that Omicron is the 15th letter in the modern Greek alphabet.
The variant, named after the Greek letter, was first detected in South Africa. It is known to have several mutations that can influence its virulence and transmissibility. So far, it is the variant of concern with the most mutations.
New data suggest that hospital admission due to Covid in South Africa is increasing, probably driven by this new variant.
Current pieces of evidence suggest that the risk of reinfection is higher, and people who were previously infected with Covid could easily be reinfected by the Omicron Variant when compared to other variants of concern such as the Delta variant.
As of now, the impact of Omicron Variant on the vaccine effectiveness is still unknown. However, scientists believe that existing vaccines still offer protection against the Omicron Variant.
Rumors have it that the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests can’t detect Omicron Variant. But the truth is, the PCR test continues to detect all variants of concern including the Omicron Variant.
Research activities are being conducted to determine whether or not the accuracy of other tests like rapid antigen tests is affected.
Facts remain, though, that the medicines used for Covid like steroids and tocilizumab remain useful. Other drugs like the antiviral remdesivir are under investigation to see if it remains effective against the Omicron Variant.
At present, there is so much that is NOT YET KNOWN about this new variant. Scientists around the world are working round the clock to better understand
the Omicron Variant.
Studies include: the performance of vaccines against this new variant, the variant’s ability to evade our immune system and its severity.
New recommendations will be available once answers to these studies are ready to be presented. Meanwhile, we continue to follow the set of protocol against COVID and convince those concerned to have themselves vaccinated. Tell them to have it NOW!