While scientists still rush to find out the symptoms of the Omicron variant of coronavirus, users of UK’s Zoe Covid app have reported symptoms like common cold.<o:p></o:p>

Some of the most common symptoms reported by users of this Zoe Covid app are runny nose, headaches, fatigue, sore throat, sneezing and more. This data on symptoms has been collected from confirmed cases of Omicron patients.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-omicron-cases-surge-17-million-people-in-the-uk-had-covid-last-week-439765">As Omicron cases surge, 1.7 million people in the UK had Covid last week</a></o:p>

These symptoms match the common cold symptoms but had not been added in the list of Omicron symptoms by the UK government.<o:p></o:p>

As of now, the UK government has mentioned high temperature, a new, continuous cough and loss of change or smell as the main symptoms. The government has urged people to self-isolate and get themselves tested if they observe any of these three symptoms.<o:p></o:p>

Zoe app's analysis was supported by the Sage committee of scientific advisers&nbsp;who said there is "preliminary evidence" of changes in Omicron variant's symptoms and loss of smell or taste "seem to be reported less frequently".

<o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/some-christmas-cheer-hospitalization-risk-for-omicron-patients-40-45-lower-than-delta-variant-439674">WATCH |</a></o:p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/some-christmas-cheer-hospitalization-risk-for-omicron-patients-40-45-lower-than-delta-variant-439674/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"Zoe data clearly shows that the most important symptoms are no longer a new continuous cough, a high temperature or loss of taste or smell," Prof Tim Spector, lead scientist on the Zoe Covid study said. "For most people, an Omicron positive case will feel much more like the common cold, starting with a sore throat, runny nose&nbsp;and a headache. You only need to ask a friend who has recently tested positive to find this out."<o:p></o:p>

He has urged the Boris Johnson-led government to change the public messaging as soon as possible and help save those people who are assuming they have common cold, but might be infected with the deadly coronavirus.<o:p></o:p>

"We need to change public messaging urgently to save lives as half of people with cold-like symptoms now have Covid," he told news agency PA.<o:p></o:p>

While scientists still rush to find out the symptoms of the Omicron variant of coronavirus, users of UK’s Zoe Covid app have reported symptoms like common cold. Some of the most common symptoms reported by users of this Zoe Covid app are runny nose, headaches, fatigue, sore throat, sneezing and more.

While scientists still rush to find out the symptoms of the Omicron variant of coronavirus, users of UK’s Zoe Covid app have reported symptoms like common cold. Some of the most common symptoms reported by users of this Zoe Covid app are runny nose, headaches, fatigue, sore throat, sneezing and more. This data on symptoms has been collected from confirmed cases of Omicron patients. Also read | As Omicron cases surge, 1.7 million people in the UK had Covid last week These symptoms match the common cold symptoms but had not been added in the list of Omicron symptoms by the UK government. As of now, the UK government has mentioned high temperature, a new, continuous cough and loss of change or smell as the main symptoms. The government has urged people to self-isolate and get themselves tested if they observe any of these three symptoms. Zoe app's analysis was supported by the Sage committee of scientific advisers who said there is "preliminary evidence" of changes in Omicron variant's symptoms and loss of smell or taste "seem to be reported less frequently". WATCH | "Zoe data clearly shows that the most important symptoms are no longer a new continuous cough, a high temperature or loss of taste or smell," Prof Tim Spector, lead scientist on the Zoe Covid study said. "For most people, an Omicron positive case will feel much more like the common cold, starting with a sore throat, runny nose and a headache. You only need to ask a friend who has recently tested positive to find this out." He has urged the Boris Johnson-led government to change the public messaging as soon as possible and help save those people who are assuming they have common cold, but might be infected with the deadly coronavirus. "We need to change public messaging urgently to save lives as half of people with cold-like symptoms now have Covid," he told news agency PA.

Symptoms of Omicron same like common cold, UK experts reveal

Passengers travelling over the Christmas holiday have been hit with disruption worldwide after airline companies cancelled more than 4,500 flights.

Passengers hit with disruptions worldwide after cancellation of airlines

In a new record high, nearly 1.7 million people across England had had Covid last week, reveals data by the Office for National Statistics (ONS). “In England, COVID-19 infections have increased in all regions except the South West in the latest week; the highest rates are in London where around 1 in 20 people had COVID-19 and lowest in the North East where around 1 in 55 people had COVID-19,” the ONS said.

The ten worst-hit by areas in England are within a three-square miles radius in south London. This region is the worst affected by the Omicron variant.&nbsp;

Last week, in Wales,70,000 people tested positive for the virus. About 44,900 people in Northern Ireland had Covid and in Scotland, 79,200 people were infected.

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Today we’ve published interim estimates of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> positivity between 13 and 19 December 2021. 
 
The number of people testing positive for COVID-19 increased in all four UK nations, as did the number of infections compatible with the Omicron variant <a href="https://t.co/P9cnXB1xEu">https://t.co/P9cnXB1xEu</a> <a href="https://t.co/THHSHGzyKu">pic.twitter.com/THHSHGzyKu</a>
— Office for National Statistics (ONS) (@ONS) <a href="https://twitter.com/ONS/status/1474349435706613825?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The data further reveals that around one in 35 people in private households in England had Covid in the same week. North-east England has reported the lowest cases so far.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-post-christmas-restrictions-to-be-announced-for-uk-says-sajid-javid-439336">Also read |&nbsp;No post-Christmas restrictions to be announced for UK, says Sajid Javid</a>

As per the ONS, Omicron related infections have increased in all regions in England with “substantial regional variation."

Meanwhile, United Kingdom's Health Minister Sajid Javid has confirmed that the ministers are not planning to announce any new restrictions after Christmas. "We're clear that there's no need for any further restrictions of any type before Christmas but of course, we will keep the situation under review," he said.&nbsp;

He further added that people "should enjoy their Christmases with their families and their friends," but at the same time, they need to remain cautious.&nbsp;

The UK has been hardest hit by the threats of the Omicron variant and this is fuelling the Covid surge in the country.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In a new record high, nearly 1.7 million people across England had had Covid last week, reveals data by the Office for National Statistics (ONS). “In England, COVID-19 infections have increased in all regions except the South West in the latest week; the highest rates are in London where around 1 in 20 people had COVID-19 and lowest in the North East where around 1 in 55 people had COVID-19,” the ONS said.

In a new record high, nearly 1.7 million people across England had had Covid last week, reveals data by the Office for National Statistics (ONS). “In England, COVID-19 infections have increased in all regions except the South West in the latest week; the highest rates are in London where around 1 in 20 people had COVID-19 and lowest in the North East where around 1 in 55 people had COVID-19,” the ONS said. The ten worst-hit by areas in England are within a three-square miles radius in south London. This region is the worst affected by the Omicron variant. Last week, in Wales,70,000 people tested positive for the virus. About 44,900 people in Northern Ireland had Covid and in Scotland, 79,200 people were infected. Today we’ve published interim estimates of #COVID19 positivity between 13 and 19 December 2021. The number of people testing positive for COVID-19 increased in all four UK nations, as did the number of infections compatible with the Omicron variant https://t.co/P9cnXB1xEu pic.twitter.com/THHSHGzyKu — Office for National Statistics (ONS) (@ONS) December 24, 2021 × The data further reveals that around one in 35 people in private households in England had Covid in the same week. North-east England has reported the lowest cases so far. Also read | No post-Christmas restrictions to be announced for UK, says Sajid Javid As per the ONS, Omicron related infections have increased in all regions in England with “substantial regional variation." Meanwhile, United Kingdom's Health Minister Sajid Javid has confirmed that the ministers are not planning to announce any new restrictions after Christmas. "We're clear that there's no need for any further restrictions of any type before Christmas but of course, we will keep the situation under review," he said. He further added that people "should enjoy their Christmases with their families and their friends," but at the same time, they need to remain cautious. The UK has been hardest hit by the threats of the Omicron variant and this is fuelling the Covid surge in the country. (With inputs from agencies)

As Omicron cases surge, 1.7 million people in the UK had Covid last week

Passengers hit with disruptions worldwide after airline companies cancel airlines

To meet the shortages in healthcare sector, the UK government is looking to hire numerous care workers from abroad. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The development comes as the country is witnessing a huge spike in the number of the coronavirus cases due to the spread of Omicron variant. It has put immense pressure on the healthcare sector. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-concerns-in-china-rise-as-country-reports-highest-number-of-cases-in-four-months-439887">Covid concerns in China rise as it logs highest number of cases in 4 months</a>

Several foreign social care workers, care assistants and home care workers may become eligible for a UK Health and Care Visa for a year. &nbsp; &nbsp;

The move comes after the recommendation of the UK's Migration Advisory Committee (MAC). It had asked to make care workers and home carers eligible for the Health and Care Visa and also add the occupation to the Shortage Occupation List (SOL). &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-omicron-cases-surge-17-million-people-in-the-uk-had-covid-last-week-439765" hreflang="en">As Omicron cases surge, 1.7 million people in the UK had Covid last week</a>

"The care sector is experiencing unprecedented challenges prompted by the pandemic and the changes we've made to the health and care visa will bolster the workforce and helping alleviate some of the pressures currently being experienced," Home Secretary Priti Patel said. &nbsp;

"This is our New Plan for Immigration in action, delivering our commitment to support the NHS and the wider health and care sector by making it easier for health professionals to live and work in the UK," Patel added. &nbsp;

These temporary measures may come into effect by early next year. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

To meet the shortages in healthcare sector, the UK government is looking to hire numerous care workers from abroad. The development comes as the country is witnessing a huge spike in the number of the coronavirus cases due to the spread of Omicron variant.

To meet the shortages in healthcare sector, the UK government is looking to hire numerous care workers from abroad. The development comes as the country is witnessing a huge spike in the number of the coronavirus cases due to the spread of Omicron variant. It has put immense pressure on the healthcare sector. Also Read: Covid concerns in China rise as it logs highest number of cases in 4 months Several foreign social care workers, care assistants and home care workers may become eligible for a UK Health and Care Visa for a year. The move comes after the recommendation of the UK's Migration Advisory Committee (MAC). It had asked to make care workers and home carers eligible for the Health and Care Visa and also add the occupation to the Shortage Occupation List (SOL). Also Read: As Omicron cases surge, 1.7 million people in the UK had Covid last week "The care sector is experiencing unprecedented challenges prompted by the pandemic and the changes we've made to the health and care visa will bolster the workforce and helping alleviate some of the pressures currently being experienced," Home Secretary Priti Patel said. "This is our New Plan for Immigration in action, delivering our commitment to support the NHS and the wider health and care sector by making it easier for health professionals to live and work in the UK," Patel added. These temporary measures may come into effect by early next year. (With inputs from agencies)

As Omicron variant torments healthcare, UK looks to hire foreign workers by relaxing visa rules

Europe is facing a pretty sharp rise in the number of Covid 19 infections and it is not just due to the latest omicron variant.

PM Johnson urges people to get vaccinated

A new wave of corona virus cases are sweeping the country. 13 million residents of Xi'an are now under a lockdown new hot spots are emerging every day.

China's pandemic playboom failing?

Europe Concerned Over Rise In Cases

As Omicron cases continue to spread across Indian states, the central government has decided to send a multi-disciplinary team to 10 states which are reporting an increasing number of COVID-19 cases or low vaccination rates.

The central government will be deploying teams to Uttar Pradesh, Kerala, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Mizoram, Karnataka, Bihar, Jharkhand, and Punjab.

“A decision has been taken to deploy multi-disciplinary central teams to 10 identified states, some of which are either reporting an increasing number of Omicron and COVID-19 cases or slow vaccination pace,” the Union health ministry said in a statement.

The decision to send a special team&nbsp;comes a day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a meeting with various officials to assess the Covid situation in the country.

In the meeting, he directed the officials to be “alert and attentive” in view of the fast-spreading Omicron variant.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/415-omicron-cases-detected-in-india-maharashtra-tops-with-108-cases-439780">415 Omicron cases detected in India, Maharashtra tops with 108 cases</a>

After a presentation by the health ministry, he directed the authorities to ensure heightened and close monitoring of emerging hotspots through effective surveillance of cases.

“The fight against the pandemic is not over, he (the Prime Minister) said, and the need for continued adherence to Covid safe behaviour is of paramount importance even today,” the Prime Minister’s Office said in a statement.

He reviewed the status of public health response measures for containment and management of the virus cases, and also took note on the strengthening of health infrastructure including the availability of drugs, oxygen cylinders and concentrators.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iit-kanpur-study-tells-when-third-covid-19-wave-in-india-may-peak-439713">&nbsp;IIT-Kanpur study tells when third COVID-19 wave in India may peak</a>

The government has been on alert as India detected 415 cases of the Omicron variant.

The highest number of Omicron cases has been reported in Maharashtra (108), followed by Delhi (79), Gujarat (43), Telangana (38), Kerala (37), Tamil Nadu (34) and Karnataka (31).

(With inputs from agencies)

As Omicron cases continue to spread across Indian states, the central government has decided to send a multi-disciplinary team to 10 states which are reporting an increasing number of COVID-19 cases or low vaccination rates.

As Omicron cases continue to spread across Indian states, the central government has decided to send a multi-disciplinary team to 10 states which are reporting an increasing number of COVID-19 cases or low vaccination rates. The central government will be deploying teams to Uttar Pradesh, Kerala, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Mizoram, Karnataka, Bihar, Jharkhand, and Punjab. “A decision has been taken to deploy multi-disciplinary central teams to 10 identified states, some of which are either reporting an increasing number of Omicron and COVID-19 cases or slow vaccination pace,” the Union health ministry said in a statement. The decision to send a special team comes a day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a meeting with various officials to assess the Covid situation in the country. In the meeting, he directed the officials to be “alert and attentive” in view of the fast-spreading Omicron variant. Also read | 415 Omicron cases detected in India, Maharashtra tops with 108 cases After a presentation by the health ministry, he directed the authorities to ensure heightened and close monitoring of emerging hotspots through effective surveillance of cases. “The fight against the pandemic is not over, he (the Prime Minister) said, and the need for continued adherence to Covid safe behaviour is of paramount importance even today,” the Prime Minister’s Office said in a statement. He reviewed the status of public health response measures for containment and management of the virus cases, and also took note on the strengthening of health infrastructure including the availability of drugs, oxygen cylinders and concentrators. Also read | IIT-Kanpur study tells when third COVID-19 wave in India may peak The government has been on alert as India detected 415 cases of the Omicron variant. The highest number of Omicron cases has been reported in Maharashtra (108), followed by Delhi (79), Gujarat (43), Telangana (38), Kerala (37), Tamil Nadu (34) and Karnataka (31). (With inputs from agencies)

Central govt dispatches special team to 10 states with high active cases and low vaccination rate

World prepares up for Christmas and new year's many nations have imposed new imposed new restrictions to slow down the spread of the omicron variant.

Celebration begin at the Church of the Nativity

A recent study by the United Kingdom Health Security Agency reveals that the efficacy of the Covid booster shot against symptomatic cases of the Omicron variant decreases within a period of ten weeks. "Repeated VE analysis continues to show lower VE for symptomatic Omicron disease compared to Delta. There is evidence of waning of protection against symptomatic disease with increasing time after dose 2, and by 10 weeks after the booster dose, with a 15 to 25% reduction in vaccine effectiveness after 10 weeks," read the report.&nbsp;

The study analysed 147,597 Delta and 68,489 Omicron cases, reported between November 27 and December 17.&nbsp;

As a first step, the researchers analysed the percentage of vaccine efficacy in between the two strains. This was with people who had received the two doses of AstraZeneca, Pfizer or Moderna Covid vaccine.

Then, the researchers compared the efficacy rate of the vaccines between the two different variants.&nbsp;

It was concluded that efficacy against the Omicron variant was lower than that of the Delta variant. However, the report further warned that there are insufficient severe cases of Omicron to analyse vaccine effectiveness against hospitalisation.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/an-event-cancelled-is-better-than-a-life-cancelled-who-chief-438610">Also read |&nbsp;'An event cancelled is better than a life cancelled': WHO chief</a>

Several nations across the world are struggling to control the rapid spread of the Omicron variant. While some countries are reimplementing Covid regulations, others are hoping that they will get rid of the new variant by vaccination.

However, scientists are still 'surprised' by the properties of the Omicron variant.

Professor Ravi Gupta, a member of the New and Emerging Respiratory Virus Threats Advisory Group (NERVTAG) told 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]."

(With inputs from agencies)

A recent study by the United Kingdom Health Security Agency reveals that the efficacy of the Covid booster shot against symptomatic cases of the Omicron variant decreases within a period of ten weeks.

A recent study by the United Kingdom Health Security Agency reveals that the efficacy of the Covid booster shot against symptomatic cases of the Omicron variant decreases within a period of ten weeks. "Repeated VE analysis continues to show lower VE for symptomatic Omicron disease compared to Delta. There is evidence of waning of protection against symptomatic disease with increasing time after dose 2, and by 10 weeks after the booster dose, with a 15 to 25% reduction in vaccine effectiveness after 10 weeks," read the report. The study analysed 147,597 Delta and 68,489 Omicron cases, reported between November 27 and December 17. As a first step, the researchers analysed the percentage of vaccine efficacy in between the two strains. This was with people who had received the two doses of AstraZeneca, Pfizer or Moderna Covid vaccine. Then, the researchers compared the efficacy rate of the vaccines between the two different variants. It was concluded that efficacy against the Omicron variant was lower than that of the Delta variant. However, the report further warned that there are insufficient severe cases of Omicron to analyse vaccine effectiveness against hospitalisation. Also read | 'An event cancelled is better than a life cancelled': WHO chief Several nations across the world are struggling to control the rapid spread of the Omicron variant. While some countries are reimplementing Covid regulations, others are hoping that they will get rid of the new variant by vaccination. However, scientists are still 'surprised' by the properties of the Omicron variant. Professor Ravi Gupta, a member of the New and Emerging Respiratory Virus Threats Advisory Group (NERVTAG) told 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]." (With inputs from agencies)

Booster efficacy against symptomatic Omicron reduces within 10 weeks

Omicron variant continues to rage across UK. UK PM has given a message urging people to get vaccinated.

UK PM asks citizens to get vaccinated against Coronavirus to stop surge of Omicron cases

As concerns over the Omicron variant has gripped the world, the UK has recorded over 1 lakh cases in a single day, the highest recorded number of the cases since the pandemic began.

Omicron cases rise in United Kingdom, authorities ramp up measures to curb growing outbreak

Thousands of would-be travellers received the same troubling message Thursday: a last-minute cancellation of their Christmas flights Friday and Saturday because of the recent spike of omicron cases, including among airline workers.

The number of cancellations globally as of Friday morning added up to more than 3,000, the Flight Aware website showed. It was the latest blow to the holiday season, mainly caused by the new and highly transmissible omicron variant, which now accounts for more than 70% of new coronavirus cases in the United States.

Delta Airlines said it had cancelled about 135 flights for Friday after exhausting “all options and resources,” including rerouting and substituting planes and crews to cover scheduled flights. It attributed the cancellations to “a combination of issues, including but not limited to, potential inclement weather in some areas and the impact of the omicron variant.”

United Airlines cancelled at least 150 flights scheduled to leave dozens of airports Friday — along with 44 more that were supposed to take off Saturday, according to Flight Aware. Other airlines, including JetBlue and Allegiant, did likewise, although American Airlines said Friday morning that it had no flight cancellations.

In Australia, dozens of flights were cancelled at airports in the major cities of Sydney and Melbourne as coronavirus cases in the country surged to their highest since the start of the pandemic. And in Europe, a spokeswoman for the Eurostar train service said Friday morning that because of travel restrictions across the continent, a small number of trains had been cancelled amid a drop in demand.

The United States is recording nearly 170,000 new daily cases, a 38% increase over the last two weeks, according to The New York Times’ coronavirus tracker.

United said in a statement that omicron’s “direct impact on our flight crews and the people who run our operation” had led to the cancellations. Crew members have been calling in sick, according to a spokesman, Joshua Freed, who said United had alerted customers as soon as it was able to. And while Freed said he did not expect the airline to cancel more flights, it remained a possibility.

“We are really managing this day by day,” he said. “There may be some more flight cancellations for Saturday. It’s possible.”

In Australia, which has recorded more than 500 omicron cases, many airline staff members are unable to work after being identified as close contacts of positive coronavirus cases, airline officials said. Under government requirements, they are required to isolate for seven days.

“A large number of our front-line team members are being required to test and isolate as close contacts given the increasing number of cases in the general community,” a representative for Jetstar Airways said by email Friday. “As a result, we have had to make some late adjustments to our schedule.”

Staffing shortages across various sectors have been affecting services in many countries as the virus continues to spread.

England said this week that it was reducing the number of days that people must isolate for after showing COVID-19 symptoms to seven days from 10 days, a change that officials said could help alleviate the shortages. The US&nbsp;Centers for Disease Control and Prevention made a similar move Thursday, though that change applies only to health workers.

Thousands of would-be travellers received the same troubling message Thursday: a last-minute cancellation of their Christmas flights Friday and Saturday because of the recent spike of omicron cases, including among airline workers.

Thousands of would-be travellers received the same troubling message Thursday: a last-minute cancellation of their Christmas flights Friday and Saturday because of the recent spike of omicron cases, including among airline workers. The number of cancellations globally as of Friday morning added up to more than 3,000, the Flight Aware website showed. It was the latest blow to the holiday season, mainly caused by the new and highly transmissible omicron variant, which now accounts for more than 70% of new coronavirus cases in the United States. Delta Airlines said it had cancelled about 135 flights for Friday after exhausting “all options and resources,” including rerouting and substituting planes and crews to cover scheduled flights. It attributed the cancellations to “a combination of issues, including but not limited to, potential inclement weather in some areas and the impact of the omicron variant.” United Airlines cancelled at least 150 flights scheduled to leave dozens of airports Friday — along with 44 more that were supposed to take off Saturday, according to Flight Aware. Other airlines, including JetBlue and Allegiant, did likewise, although American Airlines said Friday morning that it had no flight cancellations. In Australia, dozens of flights were cancelled at airports in the major cities of Sydney and Melbourne as coronavirus cases in the country surged to their highest since the start of the pandemic. And in Europe, a spokeswoman for the Eurostar train service said Friday morning that because of travel restrictions across the continent, a small number of trains had been cancelled amid a drop in demand. The United States is recording nearly 170,000 new daily cases, a 38% increase over the last two weeks, according to The New York Times’ coronavirus tracker. United said in a statement that omicron’s “direct impact on our flight crews and the people who run our operation” had led to the cancellations. Crew members have been calling in sick, according to a spokesman, Joshua Freed, who said United had alerted customers as soon as it was able to. And while Freed said he did not expect the airline to cancel more flights, it remained a possibility. “We are really managing this day by day,” he said. “There may be some more flight cancellations for Saturday. It’s possible.” In Australia, which has recorded more than 500 omicron cases, many airline staff members are unable to work after being identified as close contacts of positive coronavirus cases, airline officials said. Under government requirements, they are required to isolate for seven days. “A large number of our front-line team members are being required to test and isolate as close contacts given the increasing number of cases in the general community,” a representative for Jetstar Airways said by email Friday. “As a result, we have had to make some late adjustments to our schedule.” Staffing shortages across various sectors have been affecting services in many countries as the virus continues to spread. England said this week that it was reducing the number of days that people must isolate for after showing COVID-19 symptoms to seven days from 10 days, a change that officials said could help alleviate the shortages. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention made a similar move Thursday, though that change applies only to health workers.

Over 3,000 Christmas Eve and Christmas Day flights cancelled as Omicron spreads

The highly transmissible Omicron variant continues to rage across Europe. Watch this report for more.

Masks back as Omicron takes over Europe

New York’s Times Square is known for its extravagant-style countdown to a new year, but the coronavirus pandemic seemed to have cast off its evil eye on this celebration. Just like majority of the entertainment venues around the globe, Times Square, too, has scaled back its celebrations this year.<o:p></o:p>

With the upcoming New Year celebrations, New York’s Mayor Bill de Blasio has announced that that the celebrations will be drastically scaled back with fears of an incoming wave of Omicron variant of coronavirus in the city.

Have a look |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/times-squares-famous-new-year-countdown-goes-socially-distanced-with-a-touch-of-glamour-353735#secured-area-353734">Times Square's famous new year countdown goes socially distanced with a touch of glamour</a>

Usually, Times Square hosts nearly 58,000 people on New Year where celebrities come and perform their best talents, and people get a chance to eat, drink, dance and rung in the new year with their loved and chosen ones.<o:p></o:p>

However, this year, only 15,000 people will be allowed to enter the premises. There is a possibility that like last year, this time too people will be placed in separate pods, where each pod will house people from the same group.

<o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/omicron-variant-cases-spike-across-europe-439463">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-cases-spike-across-europe-439463/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

This year, it will be compulsory for attendees to wear face mask at all times and they will also have to show proof of being fully vaccinated before entering the ‘party area’. These safety measures this year "will keep the fully vaccinated crowd safe and healthy as we ring in the New Year," said de Blasio.<o:p></o:p>

It is expected that this year the New Year celebrations will be better in comparison to last year when Times Square was majorly empty. Last year, it was majorly the essential workers and a few invited, ticketed guests who were placed in assigned pods with a set maximum limit. These pods were placed at a distance and in a zig-zag manner to avoid any possible spread of infection. Some onlookers, who could not get to their assigned pods, also stood at a distance near the barriers, which were placed at a far away distance from the set stage for performers and the pods, to make sure people do not crowd the area.<o:p></o:p>

New York’s Times Square is known for its extravagant-style countdown to a new year, but the coronavirus pandemic seemed to have cast off its evil eye on this celebration.

New York’s Times Square is known for its extravagant-style countdown to a new year, but the coronavirus pandemic seemed to have cast off its evil eye on this celebration. Just like majority of the entertainment venues around the globe, Times Square, too, has scaled back its celebrations this year. With the upcoming New Year celebrations, New York’s Mayor Bill de Blasio has announced that that the celebrations will be drastically scaled back with fears of an incoming wave of Omicron variant of coronavirus in the city. Have a look | Times Square's famous new year countdown goes socially distanced with a touch of glamour Usually, Times Square hosts nearly 58,000 people on New Year where celebrities come and perform their best talents, and people get a chance to eat, drink, dance and rung in the new year with their loved and chosen ones. However, this year, only 15,000 people will be allowed to enter the premises. There is a possibility that like last year, this time too people will be placed in separate pods, where each pod will house people from the same group. WATCH | This year, it will be compulsory for attendees to wear face mask at all times and they will also have to show proof of being fully vaccinated before entering the ‘party area’. These safety measures this year "will keep the fully vaccinated crowd safe and healthy as we ring in the New Year," said de Blasio. It is expected that this year the New Year celebrations will be better in comparison to last year when Times Square was majorly empty. Last year, it was majorly the essential workers and a few invited, ticketed guests who were placed in assigned pods with a set maximum limit. These pods were placed at a distance and in a zig-zag manner to avoid any possible spread of infection. Some onlookers, who could not get to their assigned pods, also stood at a distance near the barriers, which were placed at a far away distance from the set stage for performers and the pods, to make sure people do not crowd the area.

Times Square to scale down New Year celebrations amid fears of Omicron spread

Due to the recent spike in coronavirus cases, several US states and European countries have chosen to reintroduce COVID-related restrictions.

While many sources claim that the new outbreak is caused by the Omicron coronavirus variant, an expert has dismissed these claims.

According to him, the Delmicron variety is to blame for the increase in COVID cases in the United States and Europe.

What is Delmicron?

According to scientist, the Delmicron is a hybrid of the Delta and Omicron variants.

According to a report by several media organisations, Dr Shashank Joshi, a member of Maharashtra's COVID-19 task team has said that, the Delmicron, or the twin spikes of Delta and Omicron, in Europe and the United States, has resulted in a tiny tsunami of cases.&nbsp;

Official comment:

The World Health Organization has yet to comment on the claims that a new strain is developing.

In India, neither the national task force for COVID-19 nor the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) have utilised the word "Delmicron".

Meanwhile, medical expert and Maharashtra government's Covid Task Force member Shashank Joshi warned on Thursday that Omicron, the latest coronavirus type, is perhaps the fastest-spreading infectious disease known to man.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Due to the recent spike in coronavirus cases, several US states and European countries have chosen to reintroduce COVID-related restrictions. While many sources claim that the new outbreak is caused by the Omicron coronavirus variant, an expert has dismissed these claims.

Due to the recent spike in coronavirus cases, several US states and European countries have chosen to reintroduce COVID-related restrictions. While many sources claim that the new outbreak is caused by the Omicron coronavirus variant, an expert has dismissed these claims. According to him, the Delmicron variety is to blame for the increase in COVID cases in the United States and Europe. What is Delmicron? According to scientist, the Delmicron is a hybrid of the Delta and Omicron variants. According to a report by several media organisations, Dr Shashank Joshi, a member of Maharashtra's COVID-19 task team has said that, the Delmicron, or the twin spikes of Delta and Omicron, in Europe and the United States, has resulted in a tiny tsunami of cases. Official comment: The World Health Organization has yet to comment on the claims that a new strain is developing. In India, neither the national task force for COVID-19 nor the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) have utilised the word "Delmicron". Meanwhile, medical expert and Maharashtra government's Covid Task Force member Shashank Joshi warned on Thursday that Omicron, the latest coronavirus type, is perhaps the fastest-spreading infectious disease known to man. (With inputs from agencies)

'Delmicron': New variant behind surge in COVID-19 cases in US, Europe?

The omicron variant, which is now dominant in the United States and spreading faster than any variant yet, has already pushed daily coronavirus case counts higher than the peak of the recent delta wave. By most estimates, the country is in for a significant winter surge.

Although there are early positive signs out of South Africa and Britain that omicron infections more often result in mild illness than previous variants, officials are warning that the new variant could swiftly overtax the health care system and bring significant disease to many communities.

Omicron is spreading fast.

The highly transmissible variant is causing near-vertical case growth in multiple US&nbsp;cities, with figures doubling about every two to three days. Officials expect it to break records. The high for average daily cases was 251,232, set in January. By some estimates, the United States could reach 1 million cases a day, even before the end of the year.

While omicron’s speed now speaks for itself, scientists are still racing to understand its threat. Preliminary studies out of Scotland and England suggest that infections from the variant could be milder, but scientists caution that omicron infections must be observed in the U.S. population before drawing conclusions.

Even if these early results hold and omicron does cause mostly mild illness, the sheer magnitude of cases it causes could still escalate hospitalisations at a time when many medical centers are already full.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-update-will-lift-travel-restrictions-on-southern-african-countries-says-us-439672">Also read |&nbsp;Omicron update: Will lift travel restrictions on southern African countries, says US</a>

“When we have millions and millions and millions of people, all sick, all together at one time, it doesn’t take a large percentage of those people to topple over the hospitals,” said Dr. Hallie Prescott, associate professor of internal medicine at the University of Michigan.

Hospitals are already strained.

Hospitals across the country are close to brimming, their care wards filled with patients who have been ill with delta or delayed treatments for so long during the pandemic that they now need critical care. About 1 in 10 hospital service areas, scattered all over the United States, have had their intensive care units at more than 90% capacity in recent weeks.

“We have patients who are waiting in the emergency department for ICU care, so we are providing ICU care in the emergency department,” said Dr. Dani Hackner, chief clinical officer of the Southcoast Hospital Group in southeastern Massachusetts, which has postponed elective surgeries to relieve pressure on its medical centers.

“I do think the coming month is going to be a very tough month,” he added.

Hospital administrators say nurses and doctors are overwhelmed and exhausted and that staffing shortages are making matters worse. Several states, including Massachusetts, have called on the National Guard to provide extra support, and President Joe Biden recently announced he would direct more military personnel to assist overtaxed hospitals.

Not enough people are boosted, or vaccinated at all.

Public health experts are worried the millions of unvaccinated or not-yet-boosted Americans are vulnerable as omicron spreads. The variant is thought to evade immunity from both vaccination and prior infection, but early research suggests a booster provides the best protection against infection. And vaccination, even without the booster, is expected to maintain strong protection against hospitalisation and death.

Across the United States, nearly 62% of all people have been fully vaccinated and about 19% have received an additional booster dose, though not everyone is eligible yet. The coverage rates vary widely by state, with some of the lowest levels found in the South. The United States overall lags behind many other nations, in part because of vaccine hesitancy.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ecuador-becomes-first-country-to-mandate-covid-vaccines-for-children-from-age-of-5-439596">Also read |&nbsp;Ecuador becomes first country to mandate Covid vaccines for children from age of 5</a>

Booster rates are also low because the rollout is just getting started. Adults and teens have been eligible for only a few weeks, and some adults are not aware that the additional shots are strongly recommended.

The Biden administration this week again emphasised the importance of being vaccinated or boosted as the most powerful tool against omicron. Still, researchers say there is significant uncertainty about what omicron will bring in the coming weeks.

“The truth is that we could be looking at a Category 5 hurricane or a tropical storm,” said Julie Swann, a professor of industrial and systems engineering at North Carolina State University who was an adviser to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention during the 2009 H1N1 pandemic. “But we have to prepare for the possibility of that Category 5 hurricane.”

The omicron variant, which is now dominant in the United States and spreading faster than any variant yet, has already pushed daily coronavirus case counts higher than the peak of the recent delta wave.

The omicron variant, which is now dominant in the United States and spreading faster than any variant yet, has already pushed daily coronavirus case counts higher than the peak of the recent delta wave. By most estimates, the country is in for a significant winter surge. Although there are early positive signs out of South Africa and Britain that omicron infections more often result in mild illness than previous variants, officials are warning that the new variant could swiftly overtax the health care system and bring significant disease to many communities. Omicron is spreading fast. The highly transmissible variant is causing near-vertical case growth in multiple US cities, with figures doubling about every two to three days. Officials expect it to break records. The high for average daily cases was 251,232, set in January. By some estimates, the United States could reach 1 million cases a day, even before the end of the year. While omicron’s speed now speaks for itself, scientists are still racing to understand its threat. Preliminary studies out of Scotland and England suggest that infections from the variant could be milder, but scientists caution that omicron infections must be observed in the U.S. population before drawing conclusions. Even if these early results hold and omicron does cause mostly mild illness, the sheer magnitude of cases it causes could still escalate hospitalisations at a time when many medical centers are already full. Also read | Omicron update: Will lift travel restrictions on southern African countries, says US “When we have millions and millions and millions of people, all sick, all together at one time, it doesn’t take a large percentage of those people to topple over the hospitals,” said Dr. Hallie Prescott, associate professor of internal medicine at the University of Michigan. Hospitals are already strained. Hospitals across the country are close to brimming, their care wards filled with patients who have been ill with delta or delayed treatments for so long during the pandemic that they now need critical care. About 1 in 10 hospital service areas, scattered all over the United States, have had their intensive care units at more than 90% capacity in recent weeks. “We have patients who are waiting in the emergency department for ICU care, so we are providing ICU care in the emergency department,” said Dr. Dani Hackner, chief clinical officer of the Southcoast Hospital Group in southeastern Massachusetts, which has postponed elective surgeries to relieve pressure on its medical centers. “I do think the coming month is going to be a very tough month,” he added. Hospital administrators say nurses and doctors are overwhelmed and exhausted and that staffing shortages are making matters worse. Several states, including Massachusetts, have called on the National Guard to provide extra support, and President Joe Biden recently announced he would direct more military personnel to assist overtaxed hospitals. Not enough people are boosted, or vaccinated at all. Public health experts are worried the millions of unvaccinated or not-yet-boosted Americans are vulnerable as omicron spreads. The variant is thought to evade immunity from both vaccination and prior infection, but early research suggests a booster provides the best protection against infection. And vaccination, even without the booster, is expected to maintain strong protection against hospitalisation and death. Across the United States, nearly 62% of all people have been fully vaccinated and about 19% have received an additional booster dose, though not everyone is eligible yet. The coverage rates vary widely by state, with some of the lowest levels found in the South. The United States overall lags behind many other nations, in part because of vaccine hesitancy. Also read | Ecuador becomes first country to mandate Covid vaccines for children from age of 5 Booster rates are also low because the rollout is just getting started. Adults and teens have been eligible for only a few weeks, and some adults are not aware that the additional shots are strongly recommended. The Biden administration this week again emphasised the importance of being vaccinated or boosted as the most powerful tool against omicron. Still, researchers say there is significant uncertainty about what omicron will bring in the coming weeks. “The truth is that we could be looking at a Category 5 hurricane or a tropical storm,” said Julie Swann, a professor of industrial and systems engineering at North Carolina State University who was an adviser to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention during the 2009 H1N1 pandemic. “But we have to prepare for the possibility of that Category 5 hurricane.”

Omicron drives US virus cases past Delta’s peak

Many countries in Europe are reintroducing mask mandates to curb the spread of the virus. The Spanish government announced that face masks will once again become obligatory in outdoor public spaces.

Europe reintroduces outdoor mask mandate amid Omicron surge

Omicron variant continues to rage across Europe. Many countries are re-introducing mask mandates to cut the spread of the virus.

Omicron variant cases spike across Europe

On Friday, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson encouraged the public to get vaccinated on Christmas Eve as a "wonderful" gift for the nation as cases soar.

Boris Johnson said that although little time remained to buy Christmas gifts, "there is still a wonderful thing you can give your family and the whole country... and that is to get that jab, whether it is your first or second, or your booster".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-does-it-mean-to-be-fully-vaccinated-against-covid-19-439428" hreflang="en">What does it mean to be ‘fully vaccinated’ against COVID-19?</a>

Prime Minister Johnson has rejected a harsher virus restriction over Christmas in England, despite an unusual surge of cases linked to the Omicron variant of coronavirus.&nbsp;As of now, he is focused on a campaign to provide booster shots to all adults by the end of the year.

As the UK set a new record of almost 120,000 cases in 24 hours on Thursday, he admitted that "after two years of this pandemic, I can't say that we are through it".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jolt-for-merck-as-france-cancels-order-for-covid-antiviral-drug-439397" hreflang="en">Jolt for Merck as France cancels order for Covid antiviral drug</a>

Last year, Johnson imposed a stay-at-home order on London and southeast England on December 19, which meant millions of people had to change their holiday plans.&nbsp;

This year he chose not to tighten rules, stating in his message, that "for millions of families up and down the country, I hope and believe that this Christmas is, and will be, significantly better than the last".

While encouraging people to enjoy a jolly family Christmas, he cautioned them to test themselves prior to meeting vulnerable relatives.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-post-christmas-restrictions-to-be-announced-for-uk-says-sajid-javid-439336" hreflang="en">No post-Christmas restrictions to be announced for UK, says Sajid Javid</a>

If the pile of wrapping paper is bigger than last year due to more family members attending, it's because of the vaccine rollout, he stressed.

Additionally, he said that getting a vaccine complied with Jesus Christ's teaching that "we should love our neighbour as we love ourselves".

Reports of parties held by Downing Street and other government departments during lockdown periods have hurt Johnson's popularity, and his party lost a by-election in a previously safe seat this month.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Omicron exposes the healthcare systems of the west

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-omicron-exposes-the-healthcare-systems-of-the-west-439425/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Several of his own party members have also revolted against recent Covid measures, particularly the requirement to show Covid passes to enter crowded venues like nightclubs, which they perceive as violating personal freedom.

Parliament as a whole passed the measure, despite the opposition of almost 100 Conservative MPs.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

On Friday, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson encouraged the public to get vaccinated on Christmas Eve as a "wonderful" gift for the nation as cases soar. Boris Johnson said that although little time remained to buy Christmas gifts, "there is still a wonderful thing you can give your family and the whole country.

On Friday, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson encouraged the public to get vaccinated on Christmas Eve as a "wonderful" gift for the nation as cases soar. Boris Johnson said that although little time remained to buy Christmas gifts, "there is still a wonderful thing you can give your family and the whole country... and that is to get that jab, whether it is your first or second, or your booster". Also read | What does it mean to be ‘fully vaccinated’ against COVID-19? Prime Minister Johnson has rejected a harsher virus restriction over Christmas in England, despite an unusual surge of cases linked to the Omicron variant of coronavirus. As of now, he is focused on a campaign to provide booster shots to all adults by the end of the year. As the UK set a new record of almost 120,000 cases in 24 hours on Thursday, he admitted that "after two years of this pandemic, I can't say that we are through it". Also read | Jolt for Merck as France cancels order for Covid antiviral drug Last year, Johnson imposed a stay-at-home order on London and southeast England on December 19, which meant millions of people had to change their holiday plans. This year he chose not to tighten rules, stating in his message, that "for millions of families up and down the country, I hope and believe that this Christmas is, and will be, significantly better than the last". While encouraging people to enjoy a jolly family Christmas, he cautioned them to test themselves prior to meeting vulnerable relatives. Also read | No post-Christmas restrictions to be announced for UK, says Sajid Javid If the pile of wrapping paper is bigger than last year due to more family members attending, it's because of the vaccine rollout, he stressed. Additionally, he said that getting a vaccine complied with Jesus Christ's teaching that "we should love our neighbour as we love ourselves". Reports of parties held by Downing Street and other government departments during lockdown periods have hurt Johnson's popularity, and his party lost a by-election in a previously safe seat this month. Watch | Gravitas: Omicron exposes the healthcare systems of the west Several of his own party members have also revolted against recent Covid measures, particularly the requirement to show Covid passes to enter crowded venues like nightclubs, which they perceive as violating personal freedom. Parliament as a whole passed the measure, despite the opposition of almost 100 Conservative MPs. (With inputs from agencies)

'Love thy neighbour': UK PM Johnson urges people to follow Jesus's teachings, get vaccine this Christmas

London's Imperial College has published research on the need for hospitalization for omicron cases. The study says the risk of hospitalization for omicron patients is 40 to 45 per cent lower than for patients with a delta variant.

Some Christmas cheer: Hospitalization risk for Omicron patients 40-45% lower than Delta variant

COVID-19 cases in the UK and France are now rising at an unprecedented pace. The surge has been triggered by the spread of the highly infectious Omicron variant.

COVID-19 cases in UK & France rising at an unprecedented pace triggered by Omicron variant

Omicron has exposed the weaknesses of Western healthcare systems. In the United States, there is now a shortage of testing kits. While in France and Germany - patients are at risk in understaffed hospitals. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Omicron exposes the healthcare systems of the west

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