Coronavirus (COVID-19) is not stopping Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly, who has been tested positive for the virus, as she continues to work from isolation.&nbsp;

On Monday (December 20) she informed on Twitter: "I have taken a rapid test and tested positive for COVID-19. Following public health guidelines, I am in isolation and will continue my work virtually, as I have been for a number of days until I get the results of my PCR test."

She also highlighted the importance of Covid vaccines as it is helping in curbing the spread of the deadly virus. She said that vaccines remained the best protection against contracting the coronavirus or suffering serious symptoms from the disease.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-reports-first-death-due-to-omicron-variant-an-unvaccinated-man-in-his-50s-438710">US reports first death due to Omicron variant—an unvaccinated man in his 50s</a>

"I'm grateful for the protection that vaccines offer us and encourage everyone to get vaccinated and boosted. It's the best thing we can do to keep our families safe this holiday season and all year long," she said.&nbsp;

Joly, 42, took over as foreign minister in October after serving Prime Minister Justin Trudeau as his minister of economic development and official languages.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/omicron-variants-properties-keep-surprising-experts-claim-438696">Omicron variant's properties keep 'surprising', experts claim</a>

Meanwhile, Trudeau said on Friday a spike in cases related to the Omicron variant was "scary," while a top medical official suggested the healthcare system could soon be swamped.

Earlier in the day, Quebec, Canada's second-most-populous province, ordered bars, gyms and casinos shut on Monday and directed people to work only from home.

(With inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus (COVID-19) is not stopping Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly, who has been tested positive for the virus, as she continues to work from isolation.

Coronavirus (COVID-19) is not stopping Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly, who has been tested positive for the virus, as she continues to work from isolation. On Monday (December 20) she informed on Twitter: "I have taken a rapid test and tested positive for COVID-19. Following public health guidelines, I am in isolation and will continue my work virtually, as I have been for a number of days until I get the results of my PCR test." She also highlighted the importance of Covid vaccines as it is helping in curbing the spread of the deadly virus. She said that vaccines remained the best protection against contracting the coronavirus or suffering serious symptoms from the disease. ALSO READ | US reports first death due to Omicron variant—an unvaccinated man in his 50s "I'm grateful for the protection that vaccines offer us and encourage everyone to get vaccinated and boosted. It's the best thing we can do to keep our families safe this holiday season and all year long," she said. Joly, 42, took over as foreign minister in October after serving Prime Minister Justin Trudeau as his minister of economic development and official languages. ALSO READ | Omicron variant's properties keep 'surprising', experts claim Meanwhile, Trudeau said on Friday a spike in cases related to the Omicron variant was "scary," while a top medical official suggested the healthcare system could soon be swamped. Earlier in the day, Quebec, Canada's second-most-populous province, ordered bars, gyms and casinos shut on Monday and directed people to work only from home. (With inputs from agencies)

'Will continue my work virtually,' says Canada foreign minister after testing positive for COVID-19

Austria is the first European country to demand compulsory vaccinations for all citizens. Now, employees will be tasked with enforcing fines on those who refuse to acquire the COVID vaccine in the Austrian city of Linz.

The recruitment drive comes just weeks before the European country implements a broad vaccination mandate.

According to a job posting posted by the Austrian city of Linz, successful candidates will be issuing penalties, handling appeals, and taking action against people who fail to pay their fine for being unvaccinated.

According to the opening line, the job will suit those who "like working with legislation and administrative procedures." 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blame-it-on-wife-guests-urged-to-be-vaccinated-at-anti-vaxxers-party-438076">Also read | 'Blame it on wife': Guests urged to be vaccinated at anti-vaxxer’s party</a>

Employees will be paid monthly for their hard work, with salaries starting at €2,774 ($3,126).

To be considered for the position, applicants must be Austrian nationals, have completed secondary education, be resilient and willing to work overtime, be free of criminal records, and, last but not least, have a valid Covid vaccine or recovery certificate.

Furthermore, when competing for the position against males with equivalent qualifications, women will be given preference.

Linz, which has a population of 200,000 people, is notable for having the lowest COVID vaccination rate in Austria.

According to a website tracking the issuance of digital vaccination certificates in the country, only 63 percent of the city's population has gotten a complete dosage of the COVID vaccine so far.&nbsp;

In November, Vienna became the first city in the world to enforce a rigorous statewide lockdown for the unvaccinated, only to have it expanded to include vaccinated citizens weeks later.

The curfew was lifted on December 12, but unvaccinated Austrians were still barred from going on non-essential outings.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Austria is the first European country to demand compulsory vaccinations for all citizens. Now, employees will be tasked with enforcing fines on those who refuse to acquire the COVID vaccine in the Austrian city of Linz.

Austria is the first European country to demand compulsory vaccinations for all citizens. Now, employees will be tasked with enforcing fines on those who refuse to acquire the COVID vaccine in the Austrian city of Linz. The recruitment drive comes just weeks before the European country implements a broad vaccination mandate. According to a job posting posted by the Austrian city of Linz, successful candidates will be issuing penalties, handling appeals, and taking action against people who fail to pay their fine for being unvaccinated. According to the opening line, the job will suit those who "like working with legislation and administrative procedures." Also read | 'Blame it on wife': Guests urged to be vaccinated at anti-vaxxer’s party Employees will be paid monthly for their hard work, with salaries starting at €2,774 ($3,126). To be considered for the position, applicants must be Austrian nationals, have completed secondary education, be resilient and willing to work overtime, be free of criminal records, and, last but not least, have a valid Covid vaccine or recovery certificate. Furthermore, when competing for the position against males with equivalent qualifications, women will be given preference. Linz, which has a population of 200,000 people, is notable for having the lowest COVID vaccination rate in Austria. According to a website tracking the issuance of digital vaccination certificates in the country, only 63 percent of the city's population has gotten a complete dosage of the COVID vaccine so far. In November, Vienna became the first city in the world to enforce a rigorous statewide lockdown for the unvaccinated, only to have it expanded to include vaccinated citizens weeks later. The curfew was lifted on December 12, but unvaccinated Austrians were still barred from going on non-essential outings. (With inputs from agencies)

Hiring alert: Austria seeks hunters of the unvaccinated 

In two new studies, two very intriguing facts about Coronavirus have been revealed. One of these findings deals with the severity of the relatively new Omicron variant, which was first discovered in South Africa, and the other reveals that there is a correlation between the virus and male fertility.

Omicron infections are no less severe

According to early data from the UK, infections caused by the Omicron variant of the coronavirus are not less severe than those caused by Delta.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/omicron-variants-properties-keep-surprising-experts-claim-438696" hreflang="en">Omicron variant's properties keep 'surprising', experts claim</a>

<a href="https://www.imperial.ac.uk/news/232698/modelling-suggests-rapid-spread-omicron-england/">The Imperial College London</a> researchers compared 11,329 people who were confirmed or likely to have Omicron infections with nearly 200,000 people who were infected with other variants. According to a report released ahead of peer review and updated on Monday, there is so far "no evidence of Omicron having lower severity than Delta, judged by either the proportion of people testing positive who report symptoms, or by the proportion of cases seeking hospital care after infection."

After two doses, vaccine effectiveness against symptomatic Omicron infection ranged from 0 per cent to 20 per cent. Following a booster shot, effectiveness ranged from 55 per cent to 80 per cent.&nbsp;

Based on the report's analysis of individual risk factors, the odds of reinfection with Omicron are 5.4 times greater than those with Delta.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/scientists-identify-a-common-symptom-of-highly-transmissible-omicron-variant-437575">Scientists identify a common symptom of highly transmissible Omicron variant</a>

Healthcare workers exposed to SARS-CoV-2 in the pre-Omicron era had 85 per cent protection against a second infection over six months after the infection, according to a study, while "the protection against reinfection by Omicron afforded by past infection may be as low as 19%."

After COVID-19, sperm count and motility may be low for months

Researchers have discovered that some people's <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0015028221021567">sperm quality remains impaired for months</a> after recovering from COVID-19.

Researchers found that the semen itself was not infectious. Men who provided samples within a month of recovering from symptomatic infection showed a reduction in sperm motility in 60 per cent of cases and a reduction in sperm count in 37 per cent of cases.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-announces-fourth-booster-dose-for-over-60s-and-medics-as-omicron-rages-438890" hreflang="en">Israel announces fourth booster dose for over 60s and medics as Omicron rages</a>

Semen samples were collected from 120 Belgian men with an average age of 35, 52 days after their COVID-19 symptoms resolved, as described in Fertility and Sterility on Monday. The results from 51 men tested between one and two months after recovery showed that 37 per cent had reduced sperm motility and 29 per cent had low sperm counts.&nbsp;

Twenty-eight per cent of men who provided semen samples at least two months after recovery had impaired sperm motility, and six per cent had low sperm counts. There was no correlation between COVID-19 infection severity and sperm characteristics.

Watch |&nbsp;Omicron Variant spreads across the world

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/omicron-variant-spreads-across-the-world-438894/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"Couples with a desire for pregnancy should be warned that sperm quality after COVID-19 infection can be suboptimal," the researchers concluded.&nbsp;

It is estimated that the recovery time is three months, but further follow-up studies are being conducted to determine if any permanent damage occurred.

(With inputs from agencies)

In two new studies, two very intriguing facts about Coronavirus have been revealed. One of these findings deals with the severity of the relatively new Omicron variant, which was first discovered in South Africa, and the other reveals that there is a correlation between the virus and male fertility.

In two new studies, two very intriguing facts about Coronavirus have been revealed. One of these findings deals with the severity of the relatively new Omicron variant, which was first discovered in South Africa, and the other reveals that there is a correlation between the virus and male fertility. Omicron infections are no less severe According to early data from the UK, infections caused by the Omicron variant of the coronavirus are not less severe than those caused by Delta. Also read | Omicron variant's properties keep 'surprising', experts claim The Imperial College London researchers compared 11,329 people who were confirmed or likely to have Omicron infections with nearly 200,000 people who were infected with other variants. According to a report released ahead of peer review and updated on Monday, there is so far "no evidence of Omicron having lower severity than Delta, judged by either the proportion of people testing positive who report symptoms, or by the proportion of cases seeking hospital care after infection." After two doses, vaccine effectiveness against symptomatic Omicron infection ranged from 0 per cent to 20 per cent. Following a booster shot, effectiveness ranged from 55 per cent to 80 per cent. Based on the report's analysis of individual risk factors, the odds of reinfection with Omicron are 5.4 times greater than those with Delta. Also read | Scientists identify a common symptom of highly transmissible Omicron variant Healthcare workers exposed to SARS-CoV-2 in the pre-Omicron era had 85 per cent protection against a second infection over six months after the infection, according to a study, while "the protection against reinfection by Omicron afforded by past infection may be as low as 19%." After COVID-19, sperm count and motility may be low for months Researchers have discovered that some people's sperm quality remains impaired for months after recovering from COVID-19. Researchers found that the semen itself was not infectious. Men who provided samples within a month of recovering from symptomatic infection showed a reduction in sperm motility in 60 per cent of cases and a reduction in sperm count in 37 per cent of cases. Also read | Israel announces fourth booster dose for over 60s and medics as Omicron rages Semen samples were collected from 120 Belgian men with an average age of 35, 52 days after their COVID-19 symptoms resolved, as described in Fertility and Sterility on Monday. The results from 51 men tested between one and two months after recovery showed that 37 per cent had reduced sperm motility and 29 per cent had low sperm counts. Twenty-eight per cent of men who provided semen samples at least two months after recovery had impaired sperm motility, and six per cent had low sperm counts. There was no correlation between COVID-19 infection severity and sperm characteristics. Watch | Omicron Variant spreads across the world "Couples with a desire for pregnancy should be warned that sperm quality after COVID-19 infection can be suboptimal," the researchers concluded. It is estimated that the recovery time is three months, but further follow-up studies are being conducted to determine if any permanent damage occurred. (With inputs from agencies)

Coronavirus findings: Omicron no less severe than Delta, Covid impacts sperm count

India logged 6,317 new coronavirus infections on Wednesday, and 213 cases due to the Omicron variant, India’s health ministry said on Wednesday.

The Omicron cases have been detected across 15 states and union territories in which 90 people have recovered or migrated.

Delhi topped the list of Omicron cases with 57 infections, followed by Maharashtra at 54, Telangana (24), Karnataka (19), Rajasthan (18), Kerala (15) and Gujarat (14).

Meanwhile, the death toll has climbed to 4,78,325 with 318 fresh fatalities, the data by the government stated.

The daily rise in new coronavirus infections has been recorded below 15,000 for the last 55 days now.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-announces-fourth-booster-dose-for-over-60s-and-medics-as-omicron-rages-438890">Israel announces fourth booster dose for over 60s and medics as Omicron rages</a>

The active cases comprise 0.22 per cent of the total infections, the lowest since March 2020, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate has further improved to 98.40 per cent, the highest since March 2020, the ministry said.

<img alt="State-wise list of Omicron cases" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6fb744a8-852b-4bc9-be06-3cdcf4d8ca05" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/oj.jpeg" />

A decline of 907 cases has been recorded in the active COVID-19 caseload in a span of 24 hours.

The daily positivity rate was recorded at 0.51 per cent. It has been less than two per cent for the last 79 days. The weekly positivity rate was recorded at 0.58 per cent. It has been below one per cent for the last 38 days, according to the ministry.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/omicron-3-times-more-transmissible-than-delta-centre-askes-states-to-take-prompt-action-438911">‘Omicron 3 times more transmissible than Delta’: Centre askes states to take prompt action</a>

The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 3,42,01,966, while the case fatality rate was recorded at 1.38 per cent.

The cumulative doses administered in the country so far under the nationwide COVID-19 vaccination drive has exceeded 138.96 crore.

The ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to comorbidities.

"Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," the ministry said on its website, adding that state-wise distribution of figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation.

(With inputs from agencies)

India logged 6,317 new coronavirus infections on Wednesday, and 213 cases due to the Omicron variant, India’s health ministry said on Wednesday. The Omicron cases have been detected across 15 states and union territories in which 90 people have recovered or migrated.

India logged 6,317 new coronavirus infections on Wednesday, and 213 cases due to the Omicron variant, India’s health ministry said on Wednesday. The Omicron cases have been detected across 15 states and union territories in which 90 people have recovered or migrated. Delhi topped the list of Omicron cases with 57 infections, followed by Maharashtra at 54, Telangana (24), Karnataka (19), Rajasthan (18), Kerala (15) and Gujarat (14). Meanwhile, the death toll has climbed to 4,78,325 with 318 fresh fatalities, the data by the government stated. The daily rise in new coronavirus infections has been recorded below 15,000 for the last 55 days now. Also read | Israel announces fourth booster dose for over 60s and medics as Omicron rages The active cases comprise 0.22 per cent of the total infections, the lowest since March 2020, while the national COVID-19 recovery rate has further improved to 98.40 per cent, the highest since March 2020, the ministry said. A decline of 907 cases has been recorded in the active COVID-19 caseload in a span of 24 hours. The daily positivity rate was recorded at 0.51 per cent. It has been less than two per cent for the last 79 days. The weekly positivity rate was recorded at 0.58 per cent. It has been below one per cent for the last 38 days, according to the ministry. Also read | ‘Omicron 3 times more transmissible than Delta’: Centre askes states to take prompt action The number of people who have recuperated from the disease surged to 3,42,01,966, while the case fatality rate was recorded at 1.38 per cent. The cumulative doses administered in the country so far under the nationwide COVID-19 vaccination drive has exceeded 138.96 crore. The ministry stressed that more than 70 per cent of the deaths occurred due to comorbidities. "Our figures are being reconciled with the Indian Council of Medical Research," the ministry said on its website, adding that state-wise distribution of figures is subject to further verification and reconciliation. (With inputs from agencies)

India logs over 6,300 new coronavirus infections as Omicron tally reaches 213

Noting that the Omicron variant is three times more transmissible than the Delta, the central government has directed states to activate ‘war rooms’ and impose strict restrictions in districts reporting high positivity rates.

The latest directive comes as India has 213 Omicron cases, with states Delhi and Maharashtra reporting 57 and 54 cases, respectively.

"Omicron is at least three times more transmissible than Delta. Hence, even greater foresight, data analysis, dynamic decision making, and strict and prompt containment action are required at the local and district level," Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan&nbsp;said in his letter to the state governments on Tuesday.

“The decision making at the State/UT and district level must be very prompt and focused and take containment measures and restrictions even before these thresholds are reached,” Bhushan added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/astrazenecas-covid-vaccine-immunity-declines-after-3-months-says-lancet-study-438907">AstraZeneca’s Covid vaccine immunity declines after 3 months, says Lancet study</a>

Emphasising the local-level containment to prevent the further spread of the virus, Bhushan said, “Kindly activate the war rooms/EOCs (emergency operation centres) and keep analysing all trends and surges, no matter how small and keep taking proactive action at the district/local level. Regular reviews with field officers and proactive action in this regard will definitely control the spread of infection and flatten the curve.”

“This evidence should be the basis for effective decision making at the district level itself. Such a strategy ensures that infection is contained at the local level itself before it spreads to other parts of the state,” the letter stated.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/omicron-gradually-spreads-in-india-200-cases-detected-so-far-says-govt-438646">Omicron gradually spreads in India: 200 cases detected so far, says govt</a>

He provided a framework that states and union territories may use to decide on restrictions to be imposed in any district.&nbsp;

Bhushan said that if test positivity of 10 per cent or more has been reported in the last week in any district, or if the bed occupancy has reached 40 per cent or more on oxygen supported or ICU beds, then states can impose COVID-19 restrictions to prevent further spread of infection.&nbsp;

“In case any one of these parameters are met in any district, district-level containment measures and restrictions may be put in place forthwith. Equally important, the restrictions must be strictly enforced," he wrote.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Noting that the Omicron variant is three times more transmissible than the Delta, the central government has directed states to activate ‘war rooms’ and impose strict restrictions in districts reporting high positivity rates.

Noting that the Omicron variant is three times more transmissible than the Delta, the central government has directed states to activate ‘war rooms’ and impose strict restrictions in districts reporting high positivity rates. The latest directive comes as India has 213 Omicron cases, with states Delhi and Maharashtra reporting 57 and 54 cases, respectively. "Omicron is at least three times more transmissible than Delta. Hence, even greater foresight, data analysis, dynamic decision making, and strict and prompt containment action are required at the local and district level," Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan said in his letter to the state governments on Tuesday. “The decision making at the State/UT and district level must be very prompt and focused and take containment measures and restrictions even before these thresholds are reached,” Bhushan added. Also read | AstraZeneca’s Covid vaccine immunity declines after 3 months, says Lancet study Emphasising the local-level containment to prevent the further spread of the virus, Bhushan said, “Kindly activate the war rooms/EOCs (emergency operation centres) and keep analysing all trends and surges, no matter how small and keep taking proactive action at the district/local level. Regular reviews with field officers and proactive action in this regard will definitely control the spread of infection and flatten the curve.” “This evidence should be the basis for effective decision making at the district level itself. Such a strategy ensures that infection is contained at the local level itself before it spreads to other parts of the state,” the letter stated. Also read | Omicron gradually spreads in India: 200 cases detected so far, says govt He provided a framework that states and union territories may use to decide on restrictions to be imposed in any district. Bhushan said that if test positivity of 10 per cent or more has been reported in the last week in any district, or if the bed occupancy has reached 40 per cent or more on oxygen supported or ICU beds, then states can impose COVID-19 restrictions to prevent further spread of infection. “In case any one of these parameters are met in any district, district-level containment measures and restrictions may be put in place forthwith. Equally important, the restrictions must be strictly enforced," he wrote. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Omicron 3 times more transmissible than Delta’: Centre asks states to take prompt action

As the Omicron strain of COVID-19 spread its wings globally, European Union prepares to contain the strain by tweaking the vaccine shots accordingly.

EU prepares to contain highly-mutated Omicron strain of COVID-19 by tweaking vaccine shots

India's Union Health Ministry said today that 200 cases of the novel Omicron variant of coronavirus have been reported in India so far.

According to the most recent statement, 77 of the 200 patients have recovered from the viral infection.

Maharashtra and Delhi, with 54 instances apiece, have the most infections from the extremely contagious strain, followed by Telangana (20), Karnataka (19), Rajasthan (18), Kerala (15), and Gujarat (14).

So far, 12 states in the country have reported cases of the Omicron strain, which was discovered in South Africa in November and was classified as a variety of concerns by the World Health Organization (WHO).

Meanwhile, India has registered 5,326 cases of COVID infections over the past 24 hours, the lowest daily case count in 581 days, according to the ministry's data released on Tuesday. 
 
<img alt="Covid" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="92da4ec4-a8b4-490b-b680-2ffa3707a07d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/omicron111.png" />

Covid instances have already been detected in 35 million people across the country.

Watch | Gravitas: Omicron spooks Indian markets, investors lose over USD130 billion in a day

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-omicron-spooks-indian-markets-investors-lose-over-usd130-billion-in-a-day-438558/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

According to the bulletin, the country today has 79,097 active cases, the lowest number in 574 days.

With 453 deaths in the last 24 hours, the pandemic's total death toll has risen to 478,000.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

India's Union Health Ministry said today that 200 cases of the novel Omicron variant of coronavirus have been reported in India so far. According to the most recent statement, 77 of the 200 patients have recovered from the viral infection.

India's Union Health Ministry said today that 200 cases of the novel Omicron variant of coronavirus have been reported in India so far. According to the most recent statement, 77 of the 200 patients have recovered from the viral infection. Maharashtra and Delhi, with 54 instances apiece, have the most infections from the extremely contagious strain, followed by Telangana (20), Karnataka (19), Rajasthan (18), Kerala (15), and Gujarat (14). So far, 12 states in the country have reported cases of the Omicron strain, which was discovered in South Africa in November and was classified as a variety of concerns by the World Health Organization (WHO). Meanwhile, India has registered 5,326 cases of COVID infections over the past 24 hours, the lowest daily case count in 581 days, according to the ministry's data released on Tuesday. Covid instances have already been detected in 35 million people across the country. Watch | Gravitas: Omicron spooks Indian markets, investors lose over USD130 billion in a day According to the bulletin, the country today has 79,097 active cases, the lowest number in 574 days. With 453 deaths in the last 24 hours, the pandemic's total death toll has risen to 478,000. (With inputs from agencies)

Omicron gradually spreads in India: 200 cases detected so far, says govt

Despite growing number of Covid cases and mounting pressure from locals, UK’s Prime Minister Boris Johnson has decided that no lockdown will be imposed in the country till Christmas.<o:p></o:p>

The leader, who is battling personal controversies, decided that his officials will keep a close eye on the situation and the Covid surge will stay "under constant review".

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-hospitals-may-close-if-health-workers-refuse-to-get-vaccinated-nhs-leader-438467">Moderna says its booster shot is effective against Omicron variant</a></o:p>

"In view of the balance of risks and uncertainties, particularly around the infection hospitalisation rate of Omicron... we agreed that we should keep the data from now on under constant review, keep following it hour by hour," Johnson said.<o:p></o:p>

This announcement comes at a time when scientific experts had been telling the government officials that strong action plan is needed to control the wide spread of the deadly coronavirus, especially its new Omicron variant.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moderna-says-its-booster-shot-is-effective-against-omicron-variant-438395">Moderna says its booster shot is effective against Omicron variant</a></o:p>

However, Johnson’s ministers decided that social distancing, limited gatherings and other such measures can be implemented after Christmas.<o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, Johnson has assured that the health experts at the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) will not suffer due to this surge in Covid cases. "We will have to reserve the possibility of taking further action to protect the public and to protect public health and protect our NHS (National Health Service) -- and we won't hesitate to take that action," Johnson said.

<o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/omicron-variant-fifth-covid-19-wave-has-begun-says-israeli-pm-naftali-bennett-438524">WATCH |</a></o:p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/omicron-variant-fifth-covid-19-wave-has-begun-says-israeli-pm-naftali-bennett-438524/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"We're looking at all kinds of things to keep Omicron under control and we will rule nothing out, but at the moment we want people to focus on exercising caution."<o:p></o:p>

This announcement by the government comes at a time when the country reported 91,743 new infections on Monday, with highest number of cases in London.<o:p></o:p>

Despite growing number of Covid cases and mounting pressure from locals, UK’s Prime Minister Boris Johnson has decided that no lockdown will be imposed in the country till Christmas.

Despite growing number of Covid cases and mounting pressure from locals, UK’s Prime Minister Boris Johnson has decided that no lockdown will be imposed in the country till Christmas. The leader, who is battling personal controversies, decided that his officials will keep a close eye on the situation and the Covid surge will stay "under constant review". Also read | Moderna says its booster shot is effective against Omicron variant "In view of the balance of risks and uncertainties, particularly around the infection hospitalisation rate of Omicron... we agreed that we should keep the data from now on under constant review, keep following it hour by hour," Johnson said. This announcement comes at a time when scientific experts had been telling the government officials that strong action plan is needed to control the wide spread of the deadly coronavirus, especially its new Omicron variant. Also read | Moderna says its booster shot is effective against Omicron variant However, Johnson’s ministers decided that social distancing, limited gatherings and other such measures can be implemented after Christmas. Meanwhile, Johnson has assured that the health experts at the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) will not suffer due to this surge in Covid cases. "We will have to reserve the possibility of taking further action to protect the public and to protect public health and protect our NHS (National Health Service) -- and we won't hesitate to take that action," Johnson said. WATCH | "We're looking at all kinds of things to keep Omicron under control and we will rule nothing out, but at the moment we want people to focus on exercising caution." This announcement by the government comes at a time when the country reported 91,743 new infections on Monday, with highest number of cases in London.

Boris Johnson decides on 'no lockdown' before Christmas

The World Health Organisation (WHO) warns against underestimating the Omicron variant of the coronavirus as cases surge rapidly worldwide.

WHO warns against underestimating Omicron variant as mild amid a rapid surge in cases worldwide

The Omicron variant accounted for 73 per cent of all COVID-19 cases in the United States, up from about 3 per cent last week, according to the latest data available in federal estimats.

The highly modified coronavirus strain has been found across the country, according to a model updated weekly by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The delta variant, which was the prevalent strain of the virus in the United States until last week, has now dropped to about 27&nbsp;per cent of sequenced cases.

The significant increase in Omicron's overall prevalence raises concerns that the rapidly spreading variant&nbsp;would cause a wave of infections, putting the US health-care system under strain. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-thailand-may-reintroduce-mandatory-quarantine-for-foreign-travellers-438554">Also read | Omicron: Thailand may reintroduce mandatory quarantine for foreign travellers</a>

While there is no evidence that Omicron causes more severe sickness than delta, a huge increase in infection numbers could overwhelm hospitals.&nbsp;

Despite evidence that it is not more severe than the Delta variant, early research suggests Omicron could be more infectious and possibly have higher vaccine resistance.

Since its discovery in South Africa in November, Omicron has been found in dozens of nations, putting an end to optimism that the pandemic's darkest days are behind it. 
 
Watch | Gravitas: Omicron spooks Indian markets, investors lose over USD130 billion in a day

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-omicron-spooks-indian-markets-investors-lose-over-usd130-billion-in-a-day-438558/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the director general of the World Health Organization, urged countries to redouble their efforts to help end the pandemic, urging for new year's celebrations to be cancelled since it was better to "celebrate later than to cry later."&nbsp;

The increase in Omicron was expected, according to the CDC, and is consistent with global tendencies.

Omicron is responsible for nearly all new infections in various parts of the United States.

According to the CDC, the variant&nbsp;was responsible for 92 percent of infections in New York and New Jersey, and 96 percent in Washington state.

To stave against Omicron, the US is advising anyone who are eligible to be vaccinated and get booster injections.

Moderna Inc. announced on Monday that a third dose of their vaccination increased antibody levels against the variant, and Pfizer Inc. and BioNTech SE have indicated that a third dose of their vaccine also helps neutralise Omicron in lab trials.

Other preventative measures, like as masking inside and at-home testing, can also help stop the virus from spreading, according to the CDC.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Omicron variant accounted for 73 per cent of all COVID-19 cases in the United States, up from about 3 per cent last week, according to the latest data available in federal estimats.

The Omicron variant accounted for 73 per cent of all COVID-19 cases in the United States, up from about 3 per cent last week, according to the latest data available in federal estimats. The highly modified coronavirus strain has been found across the country, according to a model updated weekly by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The delta variant, which was the prevalent strain of the virus in the United States until last week, has now dropped to about 27 per cent of sequenced cases. The significant increase in Omicron's overall prevalence raises concerns that the rapidly spreading variant would cause a wave of infections, putting the US health-care system under strain. Also read | Omicron: Thailand may reintroduce mandatory quarantine for foreign travellers While there is no evidence that Omicron causes more severe sickness than delta, a huge increase in infection numbers could overwhelm hospitals. Despite evidence that it is not more severe than the Delta variant, early research suggests Omicron could be more infectious and possibly have higher vaccine resistance. Since its discovery in South Africa in November, Omicron has been found in dozens of nations, putting an end to optimism that the pandemic's darkest days are behind it. Watch | Gravitas: Omicron spooks Indian markets, investors lose over USD130 billion in a day Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the director general of the World Health Organization, urged countries to redouble their efforts to help end the pandemic, urging for new year's celebrations to be cancelled since it was better to "celebrate later than to cry later." The increase in Omicron was expected, according to the CDC, and is consistent with global tendencies. Omicron is responsible for nearly all new infections in various parts of the United States. According to the CDC, the variant was responsible for 92 percent of infections in New York and New Jersey, and 96 percent in Washington state. To stave against Omicron, the US is advising anyone who are eligible to be vaccinated and get booster injections. Moderna Inc. announced on Monday that a third dose of their vaccination increased antibody levels against the variant, and Pfizer Inc. and BioNTech SE have indicated that a third dose of their vaccine also helps neutralise Omicron in lab trials. Other preventative measures, like as masking inside and at-home testing, can also help stop the virus from spreading, according to the CDC. (With inputs from agencies)

Omicron: Within a week, the strain increased from 3% to 73% of US COVID-19 cases

With the COVID-19 Omicron variant continuing to spread and relatives and friends intending to get together over the holidays, the head of the World Health Organization has cautioned that celebrations may need to be cancelled.

Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, speaking in Geneva, remarked, "An event cancelled is better than a life cancelled. It’s better to cancel now and celebrate later, than to celebrate now and grieve later."

"There can be no doubt that increased social mixing over the holiday period in many countries will lead to increased cases, overwhelmed health systems, and more deaths,", he said. 
 
"All of us are sick of this pandemic. All of us want to spend time with friends and family. All of us want to get back to normal." 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-within-a-week-the-strain-increased-from-3-to-73-of-us-covid-19-cases-438597">Also read | Omicron: Within a week, the strain increased from 3% to 73% of US COVID-19 cases</a> 
 
"The fastest way to do that is for all of us—leaders and individuals—to make the difficult decisions that must be made to protect ourselves and others." 
 
Watch | Europe weighs Christmas restrictions amid Omicron scare

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/europe-weighs-christmas-restrictions-amid-omicron-scare-438518/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

According to Tedros, the Omicron form is spreading quicker than the Delta variant and is infecting patients who have already been vaccinated or have recovered from COVID-19 illness. 
 
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-lot-of-uncertainty-covid-19-surge-puts-many-americans-on-edge-about-travelling-438572">‘A lot of uncertainty’: COVID-19 surge puts many Americans on edge about travelling</a>

According to experts, the variant is able to evade some immune responses, implying that the booster programmes being implemented in many nations should target people with weakened immune systems.&nbsp;

COVID-19 has claimed the lives of almost 3.3 million people this year, more than HIV, malaria, and tuberculosis combined in 2020, and Africa is now facing a sharp wave of infections, mostly driven by the Omicron variant. 
 
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-thailand-may-reintroduce-mandatory-quarantine-for-foreign-travellers-438554">Omicron: Thailand may reintroduce mandatory quarantine for foreign travellers</a>

Tedros reminded reporters that just a month ago, Africa was reporting its lowest number of cases in 18 months, while this week it reported the fourth-highest number of cases in a single week so far.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

With the COVID-19 Omicron variant continuing to spread and relatives and friends intending to get together over the holidays, the head of the World Health Organization has cautioned that celebrations may need to be cancelled.

With the COVID-19 Omicron variant continuing to spread and relatives and friends intending to get together over the holidays, the head of the World Health Organization has cautioned that celebrations may need to be cancelled. Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, speaking in Geneva, remarked, "An event cancelled is better than a life cancelled. It’s better to cancel now and celebrate later, than to celebrate now and grieve later." "There can be no doubt that increased social mixing over the holiday period in many countries will lead to increased cases, overwhelmed health systems, and more deaths,", he said. "All of us are sick of this pandemic. All of us want to spend time with friends and family. All of us want to get back to normal." Also read | Omicron: Within a week, the strain increased from 3% to 73% of US COVID-19 cases "The fastest way to do that is for all of us—leaders and individuals—to make the difficult decisions that must be made to protect ourselves and others." Watch | Europe weighs Christmas restrictions amid Omicron scare According to Tedros, the Omicron form is spreading quicker than the Delta variant and is infecting patients who have already been vaccinated or have recovered from COVID-19 illness. ALSO READ | ‘A lot of uncertainty’: COVID-19 surge puts many Americans on edge about travelling According to experts, the variant is able to evade some immune responses, implying that the booster programmes being implemented in many nations should target people with weakened immune systems. COVID-19 has claimed the lives of almost 3.3 million people this year, more than HIV, malaria, and tuberculosis combined in 2020, and Africa is now facing a sharp wave of infections, mostly driven by the Omicron variant. ALSO READ | Omicron: Thailand may reintroduce mandatory quarantine for foreign travellers Tedros reminded reporters that just a month ago, Africa was reporting its lowest number of cases in 18 months, while this week it reported the fourth-highest number of cases in a single week so far. (With inputs from agencies)

'An event cancelled is better than a life cancelled': WHO chief

The Omicron variant of the COVID-19 has spread its wings globally, with cases rising rapidly in the US. In the latest, Omicron has become the dominant strain in the US.

Omicron variant has become the dominant strain in the US as cases rise rapidly

As the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic continue to wreak havoc across the world after the emergence of new variants, the World Health Organization (WHO) chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on Monday (December 20) opined about taking strict measures to end it.&nbsp;

He urged the world to pull together and make difficult decisions needed within the next year as he said that "2022 must be the year we end the pandemic."

Ahead of the end-of-year festivities, he told the reporters in Geneva that it's better to cancel events "now and celebrate later than to celebrate now and grieve later" and urged the countries to avoid crowd gatherings as it would be a "perfect platform" for Omicron to spread.&nbsp;

"An event cancelled is better than a life cancelled," he said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-thailand-may-reintroduce-mandatory-quarantine-for-foreign-travellers-438554">Omicron: Thailand may reintroduce mandatory quarantine for foreign travellers</a>

WHO on Omicron threat

It's almost been a month since the first case of Omicron was detected. The early evidence suggested that the variant has a large number of mutations.&nbsp;

It has already started fueling new waves of COVID-19 in a few countries like the United Kingdom. Since it was first reported in South Africa in November, Omicron has been identified in dozens of countries.

The scientists have said that there's a possible increased risk of reinfection. However, the indications are mere speculations as experts are probing the immune escape potential of the Omicron variant.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-lot-of-uncertainty-covid-19-surge-puts-many-americans-on-edge-about-travelling-438572">‘A lot of uncertainty’: COVID-19 surge puts many Americans on edge about travelling</a>

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Omicron is a variant of the virus that causes <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a>. To protect yourself and others: 
 
💉 Get vaccinated as soon as it's your turn 
😷 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WearAMask?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WearAMask</a> 
↔️ Keep physical distance and avoid crowds 
🪟 Open windows 
💪 Cough/sneeze into your elbow 
👐 Clean your hands
— World Health Organization (WHO) (@WHO) <a href="https://twitter.com/WHO/status/1472955653677146117?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The WHO has said the heavily mutated variant is spreading at an unprecedented rate. "There is now consistent evidence that Omicron is spreading significantly faster than the Delta variant," Tedros said, warning that an increase in the number of cases... may overwhelm the health system and more people could die.

More than 5.3 million people have died since the start of the pandemic, though the true toll is believed to be several times higher.

WHO chief also highlighted the point that there should be equity across the world as many vulnerable people are still waiting for a first vaccine dose. &nbsp;

"If we are to end the pandemic in the coming year, we must end inequity," Tedros said.

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(With inputs from agencies)

As the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic continue to wreak havoc across the world after the emergence of new variants, the World Health Organization (WHO) chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on Monday (December 20) opined about taking strict measures to end it.

As the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic continue to wreak havoc across the world after the emergence of new variants, the World Health Organization (WHO) chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on Monday (December 20) opined about taking strict measures to end it. He urged the world to pull together and make difficult decisions needed within the next year as he said that "2022 must be the year we end the pandemic." Ahead of the end-of-year festivities, he told the reporters in Geneva that it's better to cancel events "now and celebrate later than to celebrate now and grieve later" and urged the countries to avoid crowd gatherings as it would be a "perfect platform" for Omicron to spread. "An event cancelled is better than a life cancelled," he said. ALSO READ | Omicron: Thailand may reintroduce mandatory quarantine for foreign travellers WHO on Omicron threat It's almost been a month since the first case of Omicron was detected. The early evidence suggested that the variant has a large number of mutations. It has already started fueling new waves of COVID-19 in a few countries like the United Kingdom. Since it was first reported in South Africa in November, Omicron has been identified in dozens of countries. The scientists have said that there's a possible increased risk of reinfection. However, the indications are mere speculations as experts are probing the immune escape potential of the Omicron variant. ALSO READ | ‘A lot of uncertainty’: COVID-19 surge puts many Americans on edge about travelling Omicron is a variant of the virus that causes #COVID19. To protect yourself and others: 💉 Get vaccinated as soon as it's your turn 😷 #WearAMask ↔️ Keep physical distance and avoid crowds 🪟 Open windows 💪 Cough/sneeze into your elbow 👐 Clean your hands — World Health Organization (WHO) (@WHO) December 20, 2021 × The WHO has said the heavily mutated variant is spreading at an unprecedented rate. "There is now consistent evidence that Omicron is spreading significantly faster than the Delta variant," Tedros said, warning that an increase in the number of cases... may overwhelm the health system and more people could die. More than 5.3 million people have died since the start of the pandemic, though the true toll is believed to be several times higher. WHO chief also highlighted the point that there should be equity across the world as many vulnerable people are still waiting for a first vaccine dose. "If we are to end the pandemic in the coming year, we must end inequity," Tedros said. × (With inputs from agencies)

'We must end Covid pandemic in 2022': WHO chief's stern warning, urges world to pull together

Omicron is now the dominant variant of the COVID-19 in the US, federal health officials said, racing ahead of Delta and other variants and accounting for 73% of new infections last week. America is staring at a bleak holiday season as the new variant has upended lives with its aggressive transmissions. US president Joe Biden is all set for his address on the Omicron surge.

US president Joe Biden to address nation on Omicron surge

Despite a rapid rise in the country's Omicron cases, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson warned people to take precautions and ruled out Christmas lockdown plans for now.

UK PM Boris Johnson: No Christmas lockdown for Britain yet amid rapid rise in Omicron cases

As Omicron cases rise in India to 161 cases, India steps up its vaccination program. According to Health Ministry, 58% of adults are fully vaccinated.

COVID-19: Omicron cases rise in India as tally reach 161

Former US president Donald Trump was jeered and greeted with boos by his supporters in Texas’ Dallas city after he revealed that he has taken Covid booster dose.

Trump made these remarks to an audience, most of whom were unmasked, during a live interview with former Fox&nbsp;News&nbsp;host&nbsp;Bill O'Reilly's "History Tour”, reported US news magazine Newsweek.

According to a video shared online by O’Reilly’s “No Spin News”, the former host said, “Both the president and I are vaxxed,” drawing some jeers from the audience, and he asked the former president, “Did you get the booster?”

“Yes,” Trump said, eliciting a smattering of boos in the audience.

He then tried to quiet down the jeer, saying, “Don't, don't, don't, don't, don't,” and then added, “That's all right, it's a very tiny group over there.”

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'You’re playing right into their hands' when you doubt the vaccine, President Trump says. <a href="https://t.co/xJc7JTL0cR">pic.twitter.com/xJc7JTL0cR</a>
— No Spin News (@NoSpinNews) <a href="https://twitter.com/NoSpinNews/status/1472983120601403400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2021</a></blockquote>
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At the event, while criticising the vaccine mandate, Trump took credit for developing vaccines under his administration as part of ‘Operation Warp Speed’.

“Look, we did something that was historic, we saved tens of millions of lives worldwide when we, together, all of us, we got a vaccine done,” Trump said.

"This was going to ravage the country far beyond what it is right now. Take credit for it," Trump said, adding, “It's great. What we've done is historic. Don't let them take it away.”

Notably in September, Trump told the Wall Street Journal that he is unlikely to receive the booster shot, adding, “I feel like I’m in good shape from that standpoint—I probably won’t.”

Trump and his wife Melania Trump had taken the Covid jabs before leaving the White House in January.

In early October 2020, Trump was hospitalized with Covid for several days, shortly after his first debate with the then-Democratic presidential nominee Biden.

Trump’s comments come at a time when 73% of all infections last week reported in US was dominated by the Omicron variant.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention numbers showed nearly a six-fold increase in omicron's share of infections in only one week.

(With inputs from agencies)

Former US president Donald Trump was jeered and greeted with boos by his supporters in Texas’ Dallas city after he revealed that he has taken Covid booster dose.

Former US president Donald Trump was jeered and greeted with boos by his supporters in Texas’ Dallas city after he revealed that he has taken Covid booster dose. Trump made these remarks to an audience, most of whom were unmasked, during a live interview with former Fox News host Bill O'Reilly's "History Tour”, reported US news magazine Newsweek. According to a video shared online by O’Reilly’s “No Spin News”, the former host said, “Both the president and I are vaxxed,” drawing some jeers from the audience, and he asked the former president, “Did you get the booster?” “Yes,” Trump said, eliciting a smattering of boos in the audience. He then tried to quiet down the jeer, saying, “Don't, don't, don't, don't, don't,” and then added, “That's all right, it's a very tiny group over there.” 'You’re playing right into their hands' when you doubt the vaccine, President Trump says. pic.twitter.com/xJc7JTL0cR — No Spin News (@NoSpinNews) December 20, 2021 × At the event, while criticising the vaccine mandate, Trump took credit for developing vaccines under his administration as part of ‘Operation Warp Speed’. “Look, we did something that was historic, we saved tens of millions of lives worldwide when we, together, all of us, we got a vaccine done,” Trump said. "This was going to ravage the country far beyond what it is right now. Take credit for it," Trump said, adding, “It's great. What we've done is historic. Don't let them take it away.” Notably in September, Trump told the Wall Street Journal that he is unlikely to receive the booster shot, adding, “I feel like I’m in good shape from that standpoint—I probably won’t.” Trump and his wife Melania Trump had taken the Covid jabs before leaving the White House in January. In early October 2020, Trump was hospitalized with Covid for several days, shortly after his first debate with the then-Democratic presidential nominee Biden. Trump’s comments come at a time when 73% of all infections last week reported in US was dominated by the Omicron variant. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention numbers showed nearly a six-fold increase in omicron's share of infections in only one week. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump heckled by supporters in Texas after revealing he took Covid booster dose

According to a recent Chinese study involving 292 samples, the Sinopharm vaccine jab is weak against the Omicron variant of COVID-19.

Study: Sinopharm vaccine jab weak against Omicron variant of the COVID-19

Omicron has spooked investors. The new variant of COVID-19 triggered a major sell-off in the Indian markets - with investors losing over USD130 billion. Why are investors worried about Omicron? Palki Sharma tells you about the five worrying trends.

Gravitas: Omicron spooks Indian markets, investors lose over USD130 billion in a day

Covid-19 infections have broken major records in parts of Europe in recent weeks, governments are scrambling to bolster up their defences against the fast-spreading of the Omicron variant. Amid this health crisis, the WHO has called for nations to redouble their efforts to end this pandemic.

Covid-19 infections have broken records in parts of Europe

The UK Prime Minister Borris Johnson may have declared that the country will not go under lockdown till Christmas, but Queen Elizabeth II has decided to call off the traditional Christmas plans at her Sandringham estate in Norfolk, eastern England amid rise in COVID-19 cases across the UK. 
 
The Queen will stay on at Windsor Castle amidst a surge in coronavirus cases being driven by the Omicron variant of COVID-19.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-experts-disagree-with-boris-johnsons-plan-of-delaying-covid-regulations-438667">UK experts disagree with Boris Johnson's plan of delaying Covid regulations</a> 
 
On Monday, she took what Buckingham Palace referred to as a 'personal decision' to also call off plans to travel to Sandringham, where members of the royal family traditionally gather for church on Christmas morning. 
 
The 95-year-old Queen had already called off an annual pre-Christmas lunch tradition for the royal family due to the surge in cases.&nbsp; 
 
"It reflects a precautionary approach," Buckingham Palace aides were quoted as saying.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/feeling-like-march-2020-heres-how-covid-omicron-is-affecting-entertainment-again-438366" hreflang="en">Feeling like March 2020? Here's how Covid Omicron is affecting entertainment again</a> 
 
This would be the second year in row that the Queen cancelled her traditional Christmas trip to Sandringham and the first without her husband Prince Philip, who passed away in April 2021. The couple had spent Christmas together last year at Windsor Castle in Berkshire, south-east England. At that time, there was a surge in Delta variants of COVID-19&nbsp;in the country.&nbsp; 
 
This year, family members are expected to visit the monarch over the Christmas period at the castle and "all appropriate guidelines" will be followed, the palace said. Though it remains unconfirmed which members of the family would be visiting over the course of this weekend. 
 
The change of plan is in response to growing concerns about the pandemic and the Omicron variant, amid calls for limiting contacts during the Christmas festivities. Ahead of Christmas, the Queen generally invites her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren to join her at Buckingham Palace in London before she departs for her annual Christmas stay at Sandringham. 
 
This marks the second year when the pre-Christmas and Christmas get-togethers in several households in the UK have been called off due to the COVID-19 pandemic. 
 
It comes as the government said it is monitoring data 'hour by hour' on whether legal restrictions need to be imposed on Christmas gatherings as the UK recorded another daily COVID high of 91,743 infections. 
 
"Obviously, there's considerable uncertainty within the Omicron data we're concerned about the increasing growth in cases, particularly in London," said UK Cabinet Office minister Steve Barclay. 
 
With reference to further lockdown measures, he added, "But there is a considerable time lag between those catching the infection and presenting as cases at hospital and of course, that needs to be looked at... Alongside the booster campaign, the increase in treatments, the changes in behaviour as a consequence of Plan B, which will also have an impact on those hospital admissions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/people-at-work-talking-about-work-boris-johnson-reacts-to-downing-street-garden-party-photo-438627">'People at work, talking about work': Boris Johnson reacts to Downing Street garden party photo</a> 
 
"We're balancing that against the wider economic consequences of any further restrictions which also carry health risks... In terms of the mental health consequences, for example, as well as those wider economic consequences." 
Current Plan B rules for England include COVID vaccine passes for events, face masks in most indoor settings and people being urged to work from home if they can. Other parts of the United Kingdom have similar rules, with Scotland asking people to limit social contact to three households at a time in the run-up to Christmas and Wales closing nightclubs from December 27. 
 
Meanwhile, London Mayor Sadiq Khan announced that a New Year's Eve celebration event planned at Trafalgar Square will not go ahead because of the surge in Omicron cases in the UK capital. He said the event, for 6,500 key workers and members of the public, was being cancelled "in the interests of public safety".

The UK Prime Minister Borris Johnson may have declared that the country will not go under lockdown till Christmas, but Queen Elizabeth II has decided to call off the traditional Christmas plans at her Sandringham estate in Norfolk, eastern England amid rise in COVID-19 cases across the UK.

The UK Prime Minister Borris Johnson may have declared that the country will not go under lockdown till Christmas, but Queen Elizabeth II has decided to call off the traditional Christmas plans at her Sandringham estate in Norfolk, eastern England amid rise in COVID-19 cases across the UK. The Queen will stay on at Windsor Castle amidst a surge in coronavirus cases being driven by the Omicron variant of COVID-19. UK experts disagree with Boris Johnson's plan of delaying Covid regulations On Monday, she took what Buckingham Palace referred to as a 'personal decision' to also call off plans to travel to Sandringham, where members of the royal family traditionally gather for church on Christmas morning. The 95-year-old Queen had already called off an annual pre-Christmas lunch tradition for the royal family due to the surge in cases. "It reflects a precautionary approach," Buckingham Palace aides were quoted as saying. Feeling like March 2020? Here's how Covid Omicron is affecting entertainment again This would be the second year in row that the Queen cancelled her traditional Christmas trip to Sandringham and the first without her husband Prince Philip, who passed away in April 2021. The couple had spent Christmas together last year at Windsor Castle in Berkshire, south-east England. At that time, there was a surge in Delta variants of COVID-19 in the country. This year, family members are expected to visit the monarch over the Christmas period at the castle and "all appropriate guidelines" will be followed, the palace said. Though it remains unconfirmed which members of the family would be visiting over the course of this weekend. The change of plan is in response to growing concerns about the pandemic and the Omicron variant, amid calls for limiting contacts during the Christmas festivities. Ahead of Christmas, the Queen generally invites her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren to join her at Buckingham Palace in London before she departs for her annual Christmas stay at Sandringham. This marks the second year when the pre-Christmas and Christmas get-togethers in several households in the UK have been called off due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It comes as the government said it is monitoring data 'hour by hour' on whether legal restrictions need to be imposed on Christmas gatherings as the UK recorded another daily COVID high of 91,743 infections. "Obviously, there's considerable uncertainty within the Omicron data we're concerned about the increasing growth in cases, particularly in London," said UK Cabinet Office minister Steve Barclay. With reference to further lockdown measures, he added, "But there is a considerable time lag between those catching the infection and presenting as cases at hospital and of course, that needs to be looked at... Alongside the booster campaign, the increase in treatments, the changes in behaviour as a consequence of Plan B, which will also have an impact on those hospital admissions. Also read | 'People at work, talking about work': Boris Johnson reacts to Downing Street garden party photo "We're balancing that against the wider economic consequences of any further restrictions which also carry health risks... In terms of the mental health consequences, for example, as well as those wider economic consequences." Current Plan B rules for England include COVID vaccine passes for events, face masks in most indoor settings and people being urged to work from home if they can. Other parts of the United Kingdom have similar rules, with Scotland asking people to limit social contact to three households at a time in the run-up to Christmas and Wales closing nightclubs from December 27. Meanwhile, London Mayor Sadiq Khan announced that a New Year's Eve celebration event planned at Trafalgar Square will not go ahead because of the surge in Omicron cases in the UK capital. He said the event, for 6,500 key workers and members of the public, was being cancelled "in the interests of public safety".

Queen Elizabeth II cancels traditional Christmas plans amid Omicron surge

The Omicron variant was first reported in South Africa in November. The covid variant Omicron has been identified in dozens of countries and now is the most dominant strain in the United States.

Rapid spread of Omicron variant raises concerns for Washington

The Palm Springs International Film Festival has cancelled its star-studded, in-person awards ceremony amid rising concerns around COVID-19 and the Omicron variant. As per Variety, the organisation behind the Palm Springs International Film Festival announced the cancellation on Monday.&nbsp; 
 
The annual awards were planned to be presented at a black-tie ceremony held at the Palm Springs Convention Center on January 6. The organisation made the cancellation announcement in a statement that read, "We are taking this action due to the recent spike in COVID cases and out of an abundance of caution to ensure the health and safety of the honorees, patrons, and staff." 
 
"The Palm Springs Film Awards are one of the largest events in the film world with 2,500 guests and more than 1,000 staff in the room," the statement continued.&nbsp; 
 
"The Film Awards will partner with 'Entertainment Tonight' to celebrate this year`s honorees with details to follow. Those who purchased tickets for the Film Awards will be reimbursed. We hope to return to the Film Awards to an in-person event in 2023," the statement concluded.&nbsp;

 
The film society also noted that the screening portion Palm Springs Film Festival, which runs January 7-17, will still take place and require proof of vaccination and masks in theatres. Considered a precursor to the Academy Awards and one of the first major award shows of the new year, the festival's 2022 awards honourees are Kristen Stewart (who earned the Spotlight Award, Actress for 'Spencer'), Penelope Cruz (the International Star Award, Actress for 'Parallel Mothers'), Jane Campion (Director of the Year, `The Power of the Dog`), Jessica Chastain (the Desert Palm Achievement Award, Actress for `The Eyes of Tammy Faye`), Jennifer Hudson (the Chairman`s Award, 'Respect'), Andrew Garfield (the Desert Palm Achievement Award, Actor for `Tick, Tick ... Boom!`), Lady Gaga (the Icon Award, `House of Gucci`) and Nicole Kidman (the Career Achievement Award,` Being the Ricardos`).The Vanguard Award goes to Sir Kenneth Branagh and the cast of `Belfast` (Caitriona Balfe, Jamie Dornan, Ciaran Hinds and Jude Hill), while the cast of `King Richard` (Will Smith, Aunjanue Ellis, Saniyya Sidney, Demi Singleton, Jon Bernthal and Tony Goldwyn) nabbed the Ensemble Performance Award. 
 
This marks the second consecutive year that the Palm Springs Film Awards gala has been cancelled.For 2021, the film festival nominally acknowledged 11 honourees -- Riz Ahmed ('Sound of Metal'), Viola Davis ('Ma Rainey's Black Bottom'), Andra Day ('The United States vs. Billie Holiday'), Anthony Hopkins ('The Father'), Daniel Kaluuya (`Judas and the Black Messiah`), Carey Mulligan (`Promising Young Woman`), Leslie Odom Jr. (`One Night in Miami`), Gary Oldman (`Mank`), Chloe Zhao (`Nomadland`) and the film `The Trial of the Chicago 7`. 
 
All 11 awardees went on to receive Academy Award nominations, with Hopkins, Kaluuya and Zhao nabbing Oscar trophies. Initially planned for January 7 at the Parker Palm Springs, honourees for that event include Javier Bardem (the Creative Impact in Acting award winner) and Asghar Farhadi (Creative Impact in Directing award).

The Palm Springs International Film Festival has cancelled its star-studded, in-person awards ceremony amid rising concerns around COVID-19 and the Omicron variant.

The Palm Springs International Film Festival has cancelled its star-studded, in-person awards ceremony amid rising concerns around COVID-19 and the Omicron variant. As per Variety, the organisation behind the Palm Springs International Film Festival announced the cancellation on Monday. The annual awards were planned to be presented at a black-tie ceremony held at the Palm Springs Convention Center on January 6. The organisation made the cancellation announcement in a statement that read, "We are taking this action due to the recent spike in COVID cases and out of an abundance of caution to ensure the health and safety of the honorees, patrons, and staff." "The Palm Springs Film Awards are one of the largest events in the film world with 2,500 guests and more than 1,000 staff in the room," the statement continued. "The Film Awards will partner with 'Entertainment Tonight' to celebrate this year`s honorees with details to follow. Those who purchased tickets for the Film Awards will be reimbursed. We hope to return to the Film Awards to an in-person event in 2023," the statement concluded. The film society also noted that the screening portion Palm Springs Film Festival, which runs January 7-17, will still take place and require proof of vaccination and masks in theatres. Considered a precursor to the Academy Awards and one of the first major award shows of the new year, the festival's 2022 awards honourees are Kristen Stewart (who earned the Spotlight Award, Actress for 'Spencer'), Penelope Cruz (the International Star Award, Actress for 'Parallel Mothers'), Jane Campion (Director of the Year, `The Power of the Dog`), Jessica Chastain (the Desert Palm Achievement Award, Actress for `The Eyes of Tammy Faye`), Jennifer Hudson (the Chairman`s Award, 'Respect'), Andrew Garfield (the Desert Palm Achievement Award, Actor for `Tick, Tick ... Boom!`), Lady Gaga (the Icon Award, `House of Gucci`) and Nicole Kidman (the Career Achievement Award,` Being the Ricardos`).The Vanguard Award goes to Sir Kenneth Branagh and the cast of `Belfast` (Caitriona Balfe, Jamie Dornan, Ciaran Hinds and Jude Hill), while the cast of `King Richard` (Will Smith, Aunjanue Ellis, Saniyya Sidney, Demi Singleton, Jon Bernthal and Tony Goldwyn) nabbed the Ensemble Performance Award. This marks the second consecutive year that the Palm Springs Film Awards gala has been cancelled.For 2021, the film festival nominally acknowledged 11 honourees -- Riz Ahmed ('Sound of Metal'), Viola Davis ('Ma Rainey's Black Bottom'), Andra Day ('The United States vs. Billie Holiday'), Anthony Hopkins ('The Father'), Daniel Kaluuya (`Judas and the Black Messiah`), Carey Mulligan (`Promising Young Woman`), Leslie Odom Jr. (`One Night in Miami`), Gary Oldman (`Mank`), Chloe Zhao (`Nomadland`) and the film `The Trial of the Chicago 7`. All 11 awardees went on to receive Academy Award nominations, with Hopkins, Kaluuya and Zhao nabbing Oscar trophies. Initially planned for January 7 at the Parker Palm Springs, honourees for that event include Javier Bardem (the Creative Impact in Acting award winner) and Asghar Farhadi (Creative Impact in Directing award).

Palm Springs Film Awards cancelled due to COVID-19 concerns

Covid-19 Latest News | 73%  Omicron infections in United States last week

The West Asia Post | Security, strategic ties top the Gulf agenda | 42nd GCC summit in Riyadh

Covid-19 infections have broken records in parts of Europe in recent weeks, governments are scrambling to bolster defences against the fast-spreading Omicron. Amid the health crisis, the WHO has warned nations that the Omicron variant appears to be better at evading anti-bodies.

'Omicron strain infecting the vaccinated,' WHO issues warning on Covid-19 variant

resident Joe Biden was in close contact with a White House official who later tested positive for the coronavirus, the administration said Monday.

The president spent about 30 minutes near the official aboard Air Force One on a trip from South Carolina to Pennsylvania on Friday, Jen Psaki, the White House press secretary, said in a statement. The official, who was vaccinated and had received a booster shot, began experiencing symptoms two days later and tested positive Monday morning.

“The president is tested on a regular basis. As part of that regular testing, the president received an antigen test Sunday, and tested negative,” Psaki said. “This morning, after being notified of the staffer’s positive test, the president received a PCR test and tested negative.”

The news came as administration officials acknowledged that as the highly contagious omicron variant has surged, a cluster of cases have been reported in and around the White House, including at the National Security Council, the State Department, Treasury and other agencies. Biden, who is 79, will deliver a speech Tuesday that his advisers say is meant to emphasize that fully vaccinated people will face far fewer health risks from the virus and its variants than the unvaccinated.

“This is not a speech about locking the country down,” Psaki told reporters Monday. “This is a speech outlining and being direct and clear with the American people about the benefits of being vaccinated, the steps we’re going to take to increase access and to increase testing, and the risks posed to unvaccinated individuals.”

In her statement about Biden’s exposure to the virus, Psaki added that he would be tested again Wednesday, and that as a fully vaccinated person, he was not required to quarantine after exposure. According to guidelines issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, fully vaccinated people who have had close contact with someone who has COVID should be tested five to seven days from the date of exposure and wear a mask in public indoor settings for two weeks or until they receive a negative test result.

Researchers still do not know how likely omicron is to cause severe illness in most people, but its speed has stunned public health experts. With omicron already the dominant form of the coronavirus in the United States, White House officials have tried to emphasize that breakthrough cases among the fully vaccinated and boosted will most likely be mild compared with infections the unvaccinated may face; but given the variant’s contagiousness, those cases could become more common.

Officials have also said that there is no reason to treat this wave like the devastating one the United States faced in spring 2020, but the virus is interfering with day-to-day functions in the administration. At least one person — a journalist who traveled with Secretary of State Antony Blinken to Southeast Asia last week — tested positive, causing Blinken to cut short his trip. Another White House official, who attended a Christmas party with journalists Tuesday, later tested positive. The administration has not disclosed the scope of infections in the White House and at various agencies.

“I would just note that we do expect there to be breakthrough cases, as there are — as there will be — across government,” Psaki said Monday when asked to describe infections in the administration.

Some federal agencies are planning to require employees to return to the office. A memo sent to Commerce Department employees Friday from Don Graves, the deputy secretary, outlined a plan to start a “staggered approach to return” beginning in January. Psaki said Monday that everyone who worked in the administration was encouraged to receive a booster shot and that “99%” of the White House staff had received one.

Still, a memo sent to the staff Monday afternoon provided a link to schedule a Pfizer dose and a plea: “The best way to protect yourself and others is by being fully vaccinated and receiving a booster as soon as you are eligible.” Both memos were obtained by The New York Times.

In his speech Tuesday, Biden is expected to encourage the public to receive a booster shot as soon as they are eligible.

Former President Donald Trump, who for years falsely claimed that vaccines were dangerous and pointedly declined to be seen receiving his coronavirus vaccine while he was in office, told former Fox News host Bill O’Reilly on Sunday that he had received a booster.

Their audience, at a speaking tour stop in Houston, began to boo, according to a video distributed by one of O’Reilly’s social media accounts.

“Don’t, don’t, don’t, don’t,” Trump said, waving his arm to dismiss the naysayers and downplaying the reaction.

Biden’s advisers have pointed out that they have taken extra precautions to keep him safe from exposure, including protocol that requires day-of testing if an official is to meet with him. Officials who see the president every day are therefore tested every day, an administration official said, speaking on the condition of anonymity to describe internal planning.

Trump, on the other hand, eschewed most precautions while he was in office.

resident Joe Biden was in close contact with a White House official who later tested positive for the coronavirus, the administration said Monday. The president spent about 30 minutes near the official aboard Air Force One on a trip from South Carolina to Pennsylvania on Friday, Jen Psaki, the White House press secretary, said in a statement.

resident Joe Biden was in close contact with a White House official who later tested positive for the coronavirus, the administration said Monday. The president spent about 30 minutes near the official aboard Air Force One on a trip from South Carolina to Pennsylvania on Friday, Jen Psaki, the White House press secretary, said in a statement. The official, who was vaccinated and had received a booster shot, began experiencing symptoms two days later and tested positive Monday morning. “The president is tested on a regular basis. As part of that regular testing, the president received an antigen test Sunday, and tested negative,” Psaki said. “This morning, after being notified of the staffer’s positive test, the president received a PCR test and tested negative.” The news came as administration officials acknowledged that as the highly contagious omicron variant has surged, a cluster of cases have been reported in and around the White House, including at the National Security Council, the State Department, Treasury and other agencies. Biden, who is 79, will deliver a speech Tuesday that his advisers say is meant to emphasize that fully vaccinated people will face far fewer health risks from the virus and its variants than the unvaccinated. “This is not a speech about locking the country down,” Psaki told reporters Monday. “This is a speech outlining and being direct and clear with the American people about the benefits of being vaccinated, the steps we’re going to take to increase access and to increase testing, and the risks posed to unvaccinated individuals.” In her statement about Biden’s exposure to the virus, Psaki added that he would be tested again Wednesday, and that as a fully vaccinated person, he was not required to quarantine after exposure. According to guidelines issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, fully vaccinated people who have had close contact with someone who has COVID should be tested five to seven days from the date of exposure and wear a mask in public indoor settings for two weeks or until they receive a negative test result. Researchers still do not know how likely omicron is to cause severe illness in most people, but its speed has stunned public health experts. With omicron already the dominant form of the coronavirus in the United States, White House officials have tried to emphasize that breakthrough cases among the fully vaccinated and boosted will most likely be mild compared with infections the unvaccinated may face; but given the variant’s contagiousness, those cases could become more common. Officials have also said that there is no reason to treat this wave like the devastating one the United States faced in spring 2020, but the virus is interfering with day-to-day functions in the administration. At least one person — a journalist who traveled with Secretary of State Antony Blinken to Southeast Asia last week — tested positive, causing Blinken to cut short his trip. Another White House official, who attended a Christmas party with journalists Tuesday, later tested positive. The administration has not disclosed the scope of infections in the White House and at various agencies. “I would just note that we do expect there to be breakthrough cases, as there are — as there will be — across government,” Psaki said Monday when asked to describe infections in the administration. Some federal agencies are planning to require employees to return to the office. A memo sent to Commerce Department employees Friday from Don Graves, the deputy secretary, outlined a plan to start a “staggered approach to return” beginning in January. Psaki said Monday that everyone who worked in the administration was encouraged to receive a booster shot and that “99%” of the White House staff had received one. Still, a memo sent to the staff Monday afternoon provided a link to schedule a Pfizer dose and a plea: “The best way to protect yourself and others is by being fully vaccinated and receiving a booster as soon as you are eligible.” Both memos were obtained by The New York Times. In his speech Tuesday, Biden is expected to encourage the public to receive a booster shot as soon as they are eligible. Former President Donald Trump, who for years falsely claimed that vaccines were dangerous and pointedly declined to be seen receiving his coronavirus vaccine while he was in office, told former Fox News host Bill O’Reilly on Sunday that he had received a booster. Their audience, at a speaking tour stop in Houston, began to boo, according to a video distributed by one of O’Reilly’s social media accounts. “Don’t, don’t, don’t, don’t,” Trump said, waving his arm to dismiss the naysayers and downplaying the reaction. Biden’s advisers have pointed out that they have taken extra precautions to keep him safe from exposure, including protocol that requires day-of testing if an official is to meet with him. Officials who see the president every day are therefore tested every day, an administration official said, speaking on the condition of anonymity to describe internal planning. Trump, on the other hand, eschewed most precautions while he was in office.

Biden was in close contact with official who tested positive for Covid

United States has reported its first death due to Omicron variant of COVID-19, health officials said.

The deceased is a man in his 50s from Texas and was reportedly unvaccinated. He was previously infected with COVID-19, according to a release from Harris County Public Health.

The case is the first known confirmed Omicron-related death in the United States, CNN reported on Monday.

“The individual was at higher risk of severe complications from COVID-19 due to his unvaccinated status and had underlying health conditions,” the release said.

County judge Lina Hidalgo tweeted that the man was the first local fatality from the variant.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-within-a-week-the-strain-increased-from-3-to-73-of-us-covid-19-cases-438597">Omicron: Within a week, the strain increased from 3% to 73% of US COVID-19 cases</a>

The Omicron variant replaced Delta to become the dominant strain that is triggering a new wave of infections in the country, US’ Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said.

It now accounts for 73 per cent of new Covid cases, a rise of about 3 per cent since last week.

It’s responsible for an estimated 90 per cent of new infections in New York area, the south-east, the industrial midwest and the Pacific north-west.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-thailand-may-reintroduce-mandatory-quarantine-for-foreign-travellers-438554">Also read | Omicron: Thailand may reintroduce mandatory quarantine for foreign travellers</a>&nbsp;

The Delta variant, which was the prevalent strain of the virus in the United States until last week, has now dropped to about 27 per cent of sequenced cases.

The reports of new Omicron -related cases are in line with the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) prediction which warned that the new variant would spread faster than the Delta.

"And it is more likely people vaccinated or recovered from COVID-19 could be infected or re-infected,” WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said.

The new variant was first reported to the WHO from South Africa on November 25. And a day later, it was designated as a ‘variant of concern’

The mutant has since shown up in about 90 countries.

(With inputs from agencies)

United States has reported its first death due to Omicron variant of COVID-19, health officials said. The deceased is a man in his 50s from Texas and was reportedly unvaccinated.

United States has reported its first death due to Omicron variant of COVID-19, health officials said. The deceased is a man in his 50s from Texas and was reportedly unvaccinated. He was previously infected with COVID-19, according to a release from Harris County Public Health. The case is the first known confirmed Omicron-related death in the United States, CNN reported on Monday. “The individual was at higher risk of severe complications from COVID-19 due to his unvaccinated status and had underlying health conditions,” the release said. County judge Lina Hidalgo tweeted that the man was the first local fatality from the variant. Also read | Omicron: Within a week, the strain increased from 3% to 73% of US COVID-19 cases The Omicron variant replaced Delta to become the dominant strain that is triggering a new wave of infections in the country, US’ Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said. It now accounts for 73 per cent of new Covid cases, a rise of about 3 per cent since last week. It’s responsible for an estimated 90 per cent of new infections in New York area, the south-east, the industrial midwest and the Pacific north-west. Also read | Omicron: Thailand may reintroduce mandatory quarantine for foreign travellers The Delta variant, which was the prevalent strain of the virus in the United States until last week, has now dropped to about 27 per cent of sequenced cases. The reports of new Omicron -related cases are in line with the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) prediction which warned that the new variant would spread faster than the Delta. "And it is more likely people vaccinated or recovered from COVID-19 could be infected or re-infected,” WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said. The new variant was first reported to the WHO from South Africa on November 25. And a day later, it was designated as a ‘variant of concern’ The mutant has since shown up in about 90 countries. (With inputs from agencies)

US reports first death due to Omicron variant—an unvaccinated man in his 50s

Several nations across the world are struggling to control the rapid spread of the Omicron variant of the coronavirus. While some countries are reimplementing Covid regulations, others are hoping it would pass away by vaccination. Amid all this chaos, scientists are still 'surprised' by properties of Omicron variant.<o:p></o:p>

The new variant of coronavirus was detected by scientific experts of African countries and reported in the first few weeks of December 2021. Since then, experts have been rushing to identify symptoms, effect and vaccine efficiency for this variant. However, the variant keeps on surprising.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-within-a-week-the-strain-increased-from-3-to-73-of-us-covid-19-cases-438597">Omicron: Within a week, the strain increased from 3% to 73% of US COVID cases</a></o:p>

Professor Ravi Gupta, a member of the New and Emerging Respiratory Virus Threats Advisory Group (NERVTAG) told a western media house, Sky News, that even after almost a month of discovering this new variant, scientists are still learning ‘all the time’ about Omicron and its properties.<o:p></o:p>

"Some experiments that have been done in different groups are suggesting that the virus has kind of altered the way it infects cells,” Gupta said. "This is again potentially due to some mutations that have occurred, and there may, and this is a big caveat, there may be a slightly different profile for this virus [compared to Delta]."

<o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/omicron-variant-surge-across-world-govts-taking-strict-measures-to-curb-spread-438659">WATCH |</a></o:p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/omicron-variant-surge-across-world-govts-taking-strict-measures-to-curb-spread-438659/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"Nonetheless, even if it were a little bit milder, in a very broad sense, the sheer numbers of cases would still translate into some individuals becoming quite sick. We're not anticipating that this virus, because of these changes, is going to suddenly become harmless. I think that shouldn't be the interpretation of the work that we and others are doing," he added. "But what we are saying is that we are learning about the virus all the time."<o:p></o:p>

He also warned that looking at the doubling rate of the Omicron variant, it is highly possible that the health facilities might be overwhelmed soon. "Even if the vaccines protect us to a significant degree, then the increased transmissibility and penetration of the virus into communities that we're seeing already is putting a large amount of pressure (on the NHS) because a very small fraction of a very large number still translates to significant numbers being hospitalised," he said.<o:p></o:p>

Several nations across the world are struggling to control the rapid spread of the Omicron variant of the coronavirus. While some countries are reimplementing Covid regulations, others are hoping it would pass away by vaccination.

Several nations across the world are struggling to control the rapid spread of the Omicron variant of the coronavirus. While some countries are reimplementing Covid regulations, others are hoping it would pass away by vaccination. Amid all this chaos, scientists are still 'surprised' by properties of Omicron variant. The new variant of coronavirus was detected by scientific experts of African countries and reported in the first few weeks of December 2021. Since then, experts have been rushing to identify symptoms, effect and vaccine efficiency for this variant. However, the variant keeps on surprising. Also read | Omicron: Within a week, the strain increased from 3% to 73% of US COVID cases Professor Ravi Gupta, a member of the New and Emerging Respiratory Virus Threats Advisory Group (NERVTAG) told a western media house, Sky News, that even after almost a month of discovering this new variant, scientists are still learning ‘all the time’ about Omicron and its properties. "Some experiments that have been done in different groups are suggesting that the virus has kind of altered the way it infects cells,” Gupta said. "This is again potentially due to some mutations that have occurred, and there may, and this is a big caveat, there may be a slightly different profile for this virus [compared to Delta]." WATCH | "Nonetheless, even if it were a little bit milder, in a very broad sense, the sheer numbers of cases would still translate into some individuals becoming quite sick. We're not anticipating that this virus, because of these changes, is going to suddenly become harmless. I think that shouldn't be the interpretation of the work that we and others are doing," he added. "But what we are saying is that we are learning about the virus all the time." He also warned that looking at the doubling rate of the Omicron variant, it is highly possible that the health facilities might be overwhelmed soon. "Even if the vaccines protect us to a significant degree, then the increased transmissibility and penetration of the virus into communities that we're seeing already is putting a large amount of pressure (on the NHS) because a very small fraction of a very large number still translates to significant numbers being hospitalised," he said.

Omicron variant's properties keep 'surprising', experts claim

Lockdown party scandal snowballs as UK PM Boris Johnson's 'Wine & Cheese' photo leaks from May 2020.

'Wine & Cheese' photo latest blow to controversy-ridden UK PM Boris Johnson

Study: Sinopharm's booster jab ineffective against Omicron variant of the COVID-19

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