Omicron (B.1.1.529): SARS-CoV-2 Variant of Concern

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Omicron (B.1.1.529): SARS-CoV-2 Variant of Concern

Dec. 03, 2021
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The B.1.1.529 variant was first reported to WHO from South Africa on 24 November 2021.

 

This variant has a large number of mutations, some of which are concerning. Preliminary evidence suggests an increased risk of reinfection with this variant, as compared to other VOCs. The number of cases of this variant appears to be increasing in almost all provinces in South Africa.

 

Current SARS-CoV-2 PCR diagnostics continue to detect this variant. Several labs have indicated that for one widely used PCR test, one of the three target genes is not detected (called S gene dropout or S gene target failure) and this test can therefore be used as marker for this variant, pending sequencing confirmation. Using this approach, this variant has been detected at faster rates than previous surges in infection, suggesting that this variant may have a growth advantage.

 

Based on the evidence presented indicative of a detrimental change in COVID-19 epidemiology, the TAG-VE (The Technical Advisory Group on SARS-CoV-2 Virus Evolution) has advised WHO that this variant should be designated as a VOC, and the WHO has designated B.1.1.529 as a VOC (Variant of Concern), named Omicron.

 

Individuals are reminded to take measures to reduce their risk of COVID-19, including proven public health and social measures such as wearing well-fitting masks, hand hygiene, physical distancing, improving ventilation of indoor spaces, avoiding crowded spaces, and getting vaccinated.


Note: The above information is abstracted from Classification of Omicron (B.1.1.529): SARS-CoV-2 Variant of Concern, the news at www.who.int


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