WHO designates new Covid strain as variant of concern, calls it ‘Omicron’

Bhubaneswar: The new COVID-19 variant B.1.1.529, which was detected in South Africa has also been identified in Botswana, Belgium, Hong Kong, and Israel.

The Technical Advisory Group on SARS-CoV-2 Virus Evolution met today to review the known facts about the Covid variant B.1.1.529. 

This new strain of coronavirus reportedly is more transmissible and has been classified as a “Variant of Concern” by the World Health Organization (WHO) on November 27, 2021.

The Technical Advisory Group on SARS-CoV-2 Virus Evolution advised World Health Organization (WHO) that it should be designated a ‘Variant of Concern’.

The new COVID 19 variant has been named “Omicron”, announced WHO on its official Twitter handle.

The Technical Advisory Group on SARS-CoV-2 Virus Evolution met today to review what is known about the #COVID19 variant B.1.1.529.
They advised WHO that it should be designated a Variant of Concern.
WHO has named it Omicron, in line with naming protocols https://t.co/bSbVas9yds pic.twitter.com/Gev1zIt1Ek

— World Health Organization (WHO) (@WHO) November 26, 2021

Omicron has a number of mutations, some of which are concerning. Preliminary evidence suggests an increased risk of reinfection with this variant, as compared to other variants of concern,” the WHO said in a statement.

The number of cases of this variant appears to be increasing in almost all provinces in South Africa this variant has been detected at faster rates than previous surges in infection.

WHO added that there are a number of studies underway and the Technical Advisory Group on SARS-CoV-2 Virus Evolution (TAG-VE) will continue to evaluate this variant.

It is also noteworthy that, amid rising in cases of Covid variant in India, restrictions will be imposed on travellers coming from three countries to Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar,  informed Rama Raman Mohanty informed Chief of Director of Medical Education & Training (DMET) of Odisha.

Reportedly, the three countries include: South Africa, Botswana and Hongkong.

The travelers will have to undergo COVID-19 test mandatorily. If necessary the traveler will have to remain under isolation for 10 days.

Also read: New Botswana variant is most mutated version of Covid