Recently, the deadly COVID-19 virus has mutated into the 5th variant after the Alpha, Beta, Gamma, and Delta variants, which the World Health Organization (WHO) classified as variants of concern. This latest COVID-19 mutation is scientifically named B.1.1.529 before WHO assigned it the Greek letter name “Omicron” .
Where does “Omicron” come from?
The Omicron COVID-19 outbreak was first identified in Gauteng province of South Africa on November 25. Currently, Omicron variant infections have been found in at least 13 countries, including South Africa, Botswana, Belgium, Hong Kong, Israel, the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Denmark, Australia, Canada, and the Czech Republic. The total number of infected cases is in the hundreds (data as of November 30, 2021).
How dangerous is “Omicron”?
This new COVID virus has a total of 50 gene mutations, making it very different from other mutated COVID strains. There are 32 mutations on the spike protein of the virus and 10 mutations on the receptor binding domain, which the virus uses to attach to human cells. In comparison, the currently dominant Delta variant worldwide has only 2 mutations in this area. This is why experts in many countries are concerned that the current COVID-19 vaccines may not be effective against this mutated strain. If it spreads widely, the world may face another crisis.
Are the current vaccines effective?
Current data suggests that the Omicron mutation may enable the virus to better evade immunity, which could reduce vaccine effectiveness. However, vaccines still help reduce the severity of severe illness. Many pharmaceutical companies are accelerating the development of new COVID-19 vaccines to combat the Omicron variant.
Don’t panic yet: “Omicron” is concerning but may not be severe
According to Dr. Coetzee, President of the South African Medical Association, patients infected with the Omicron virus show symptoms similar in severity to the original virus, including high fever, severe bone pain, muscle pain, and fatigue. However, unlike previous variants, those infected with Omicron do not experience loss of smell or taste. As of November 29, 2021, there have been no reported deaths, so it can be concluded that the Omicron virus causes moderately severe illness.