Omicron: All we know about new coronavirus variant- In pics
Some important aspects of the Omicron variant have been interpreted by the experts so far analysing the preliminary data.
India on Thursday(December 2) reported two cases of the new Omicron variant of coronavirus that have been detected in Karnataka. The new variant of coronavirus has already been dubbed as a 'variant of concern' by the World Health Organisation. Here are some important aspects of the Omicron variant which have been interpreted by the experts so far analysing the preliminary data.
Transmissibility of Omicron
Severity of infection
The WHO says that is too early to assess whether Omicron causes more severe infection or less compared to other variants, including Delta. Top US infectious disease expert Anthony Fauci on Wednesday (December 1) said it could take two weeks or more to gain insight into how easily the variant spreads, the severity of the illness that it causes, and whether it can evade currently available vaccines. (Image credit: ANI)
Mutations in structure of Omicron
Omicron shares some mutations with the delta variant but also possesses others that are quite different. The omicron variant has 50 mutations overall, with 32 mutations on the spike protein alone. The spike protein which forms protruding knobs on the outside of the SARS-CoV-2 virus helps it to adhere to cells so that it can gain entry. (Image credit: IANS)
New variant's effect on country
Measures to prevent infections
Since only preliminary data is available and there is a lot of insight to be gained about the transmissibility, severity, and the variant's effect on the vaccines, WHO and the Centre suggest adhering to the basic COVID-19 protocols i.e. proper sanitisation, wearing of a mask and avoiding the gatherings. (Image credit: ANI)