More data is needed on the new COVID-19 Omicron variant. So far, scientists across the world are still awaiting more knowledge on this new variant.
It was first reported in South Africa. Now a top health expert has warned India that the country should be prepared for a possible third wave that may be caused by the new Omicron variant.
Its high transmissibility is what’s keeping the scientists on toes but it could possibly have a low fatality.
Executive Director, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bibinagar, Dr Vikas Bhatia, talking about the helpfulness of the Hybrid immunity in the possible wave, says, “It is very difficult to predict because, and even at this point of time when more than 30 countries have reported one or more cases, we are still waiting for some more information. So, in this phase, we should be preparing ourselves that a third wave may come but at the same time, it may be good news in case we find that this particular virus Omicron is not very fatal. So far no death has been reported from any part of the world.”
Meanwhile, 21 cases of the Omicron variant have been reported in India. Out of these, nine have been reported in Rajasthan, eight in Maharashtra, two in Karnataka and one each in Delhi and Gujarat.
Omicron a variant of concern
The new variant Omicron was first reported to the WHO from South Africa on November 25. A day later, the WHO named this new variant B.1.1.529, detected in South Africa, as Omicron. The WHO has classified Omicron as a variant of concern (VoC).
The Centre Saturday wrote to five states including Odisha, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Mizoram and the UT of J&K. It also expressed concern over a rapid increase in daily Covid cases and mortality rate.
It is worth noting that Covid- appropriate behaviour should be strictly followed.
Yet its compliance continues to remain at its lowest in India despite the detection of the Omicron variant here in India.
Delhi also recorded its first Omicron case in a Tanzania returnee this Sunday.