South Africa was the first country to detect the Omicron variant, since then it has dealt with a massive surge in coronavirus cases. But in the last few days the trend gave the impression that the situation was improving. For many this is a massive improvement in the country's COVID-19 battle. But the problem is South Africa's testing rates have also gone down.

South Africa: Daily cases reduce as COVID-19 testing goes down

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to hold its 90th Annual General Meeting on Saturday to discuss a host of&nbsp;issues, which might give the board a chance to discuss India's tour of South Africa, which at the moment looks doubtful due to the newly emerged coronavirus (COVID-19) variant Omicron.&nbsp;

Due to the new variant fears, some events in South Africa&nbsp;shut down last week as rugby teams and golfers scrambled to leave the country.&nbsp;

As per media reports, India's tour of South Africa for a three-Test series, followed by three one-day internationals (ODI) and four Twenty20 matches might get pushed back by a week.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mayank-agarwal-most-attacking-indian-batter-since-sehwag-in-tests-says-former-india-batting-coach-433915">Mayank Agarwal most attacking Indian batter since Sehwag in Tests, says former India batting coach</a>

The Test series is scheduled to start on December 17 in Johannesburg. It is expected that the Indian cricketers will know the decision in the next few days whether the tour will go ahead or not.&nbsp;

In BCCI's 24 point agenda, point (T) pertains to "Update on Future Tours Programme' and under this provision, the discussion can happen. Although the series is not part of the meeting's official agenda, it can be brought up during the Future Tours Program discussion.

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Even Kohli spoke&nbsp;about the doubts as he said that his side were seeking clarity about the SA tour. Virat said, "We have spoken to all the senior members of the squad. Obviously, Rahul bhai [head coach Rahul Dravid] has initiated a conversation within the group, which is very important to know."

He added, "At the end of the day we understand - our focus from the Test match will not shift regardless - but you want to have clarity and want to be in a situation where you know exactly what's going on. We've been talking to the board and we are pretty confident that within a day or two, or pretty soon we'll have absolute clarity as to what is going on."

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to hold its 90th Annual General Meeting on Saturday to discuss a host of issues, which might give the board a chance to discuss India's tour of South Africa, which at the moment looks doubtful due to the newly emerged coronavirus (COVID-19) variant Omicron.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to hold its 90th Annual General Meeting on Saturday to discuss a host of issues, which might give the board a chance to discuss India's tour of South Africa, which at the moment looks doubtful due to the newly emerged coronavirus (COVID-19) variant Omicron. Due to the new variant fears, some events in South Africa shut down last week as rugby teams and golfers scrambled to leave the country. As per media reports, India's tour of South Africa for a three-Test series, followed by three one-day internationals (ODI) and four Twenty20 matches might get pushed back by a week. ALSO READ | Mayank Agarwal most attacking Indian batter since Sehwag in Tests, says former India batting coach The Test series is scheduled to start on December 17 in Johannesburg. It is expected that the Indian cricketers will know the decision in the next few days whether the tour will go ahead or not. In BCCI's 24 point agenda, point (T) pertains to "Update on Future Tours Programme' and under this provision, the discussion can happen. Although the series is not part of the meeting's official agenda, it can be brought up during the Future Tours Program discussion. ALSO READ | Commandos, sharpshooters, over 1500 security personnel? PAK's arrangements for WI home series revealed: Report Even Kohli spoke about the doubts as he said that his side were seeking clarity about the SA tour. Virat said, "We have spoken to all the senior members of the squad. Obviously, Rahul bhai [head coach Rahul Dravid] has initiated a conversation within the group, which is very important to know." He added, "At the end of the day we understand - our focus from the Test match will not shift regardless - but you want to have clarity and want to be in a situation where you know exactly what's going on. We've been talking to the board and we are pretty confident that within a day or two, or pretty soon we'll have absolute clarity as to what is going on."

BCCI might discuss the fate of India's tour of South Africa in AGM amid COVID-19 Omicron variant fears

Amidst the rising covid-19 cases and also the concerns over the Omicron mutant variant of coronavirus, South Africa is also battling with another problem of vaccine hesitancy.

South Africa battles vaccine hesitancy, only 25% of population vaccinated

30 wild white rhinos have been successfully translocated from South Africa to Rwanda in the largest-ever single translocation effort, aimed at establishing a new stronghold for the species in Akagera National Park.

30 white Rhinos find new home in Rwanda in largest-ever single translocation

Sri Lanka on Friday detected its first case of the newly found Omicron COVID-19 variant. According to reports, a Sri Lankan national who had returned from South Africa has tested positive for the virus.

First case of Omnicron COVID-19 variant detected in Sri Lanka

South Africa is being hit by the fourth wave of COVID-19 infections driven by the newly found Omicron variant. The Omicron variant has raised global fears of a surge in infections and has prompted governments across continents to impose travel curbs and take other measures to contain it.

South Africa reels under fourth COVID-19 wave, cases rise by 5 times in one week

Scientists are pretty sure that the Omicron covid variant is causing an increase in the number of covid reinfections in South Africa and is also overpowering the Delta variant to become the country's most dominant strain.

South Africa witnesses rise in covid reinfections

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres blasted what he called "travel apartheid" as the US and other countries have implemented travel bans against South Africa to stop the spread of the Omicron variant.

UN chief Guterres blasts 'travel apartheid' against South Africa

Heavily mutated&nbsp;Omicron&nbsp;is rapidly becoming the dominant variant of the coronavirus in&nbsp;South&nbsp;Africa&nbsp;less than four weeks after it was first detected there, and the United States on Wednesday&nbsp;became the latest country to identify an&nbsp;Omicron&nbsp;case within its borders.

The first known US case was a fully vaccinated person in California who returned to the United States from&nbsp;South&nbsp;Africa&nbsp;on Nov. 22 and tested positive seven&nbsp;days later.

The person had mild symptoms and was in self-quarantine, Dr. Anthony Fauci, the top US&nbsp;infectious disease official, told reporters at the White House.

Late on Tuesday, airlines in the United States were told to hand over the names of passengers arriving from parts of&nbsp;southern&nbsp;Africa&nbsp;hit by&nbsp;Omicron, according to a US&nbsp;Centers for Disease Control and Prevention letter seen by Reuters.

Key questions remain about the&nbsp;new&nbsp;variant, which has been found in two dozen countries, including Spain, Canada, Britain, Austria and Portugal. The UAE reported its first case on Wednesday, the second Gulf country after Saudi Arabia.

Early indications suggesting&nbsp;Omicron&nbsp;may be markedly more contagious than previous variants have rattled financial markets, fearful that&nbsp;new&nbsp;restrictions could choke off a tentative recovery from the economic ravages of the pandemic.

South&nbsp;Africa's National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) said early epidemiological data suggested Omicron&nbsp;was able to evade some immunity, but existing vaccines should still protect against severe disease and death.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-california-reports-the-first-us-case-of-the-omicron-variant-433391">Also read |&nbsp;COVID-19: California reports the first US case of the Omicron variant</a>

It said 74% of all the virus genomes it had sequenced last month had been of the&nbsp;new&nbsp;variant, which was first found in a sample taken on Nov. 8 in Gauteng,&nbsp;South&nbsp;Africa's most populous province.

The number of&nbsp;new&nbsp;cases&nbsp;reported in&nbsp;South&nbsp;Africa&nbsp;doubled from Tuesday&nbsp;to Wednesday.

World Health Organization (WHO) epidemiologist Maria van Kerkhove told a briefing that data on how contagious&nbsp;Omicron&nbsp;was should be available "within&nbsp;days."

BioNTech's CEO said the vaccine it makes in a partnership with Pfizer was likely to offer strong protection against severe disease from&nbsp;Omicron.

'PREPARE FOR THE WORST'

The president of the European Union's executive body said there was a "race against time" to stave off the&nbsp;new&nbsp;variant while scientists establish how dangerous it is. The EU brought forward the start of its vaccine rollout for 5-to-11-year-olds by a week to Dec. 13.

"Prepare for the worst, hope for the best," Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission, told a&nbsp;news conference.

She said that full vaccination and a booster shot provided the strongest possible protection, according to scientists - a view echoed by Fauci.

But WHO emergencies director Mike Ryan criticised developed countries pushing booster shots for large parts of their fully vaccinated populations when vulnerable people in many poorer regions have had no vaccination at all.

"There is no evidence that I'm aware of that will suggest that boosting the entire population is going to necessarily provide any greater protection for otherwise healthy individuals against hospitalisation or death," he said.

Britain and the United States have both expanded their booster programs in response to the&nbsp;new&nbsp;variant.

The WHO has noted many times that the coronavirus will keep producing&nbsp;new&nbsp;variants for as long as it is allowed to circulate freely in large unvaccinated populations.

TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS

Some 56 countries were reportedly implementing travel measures to guard against&nbsp;Omicron&nbsp;as of Nov. 28, the WHO said.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres slammed what he called "travel apartheid."

"Blanket travel bans will not prevent the international spread and they place a heavy burden on lives and livelihoods," the WHO said&nbsp;while advising those who were unwell, at risk, or 60 years and over and unvaccinated to postpone travel.

The United States has barred nearly all foreigners who have been in one of eight&nbsp;southern&nbsp;African countries.

Hong Kong added Japan, Portugal and Sweden to its travel restrictions. Malaysia temporarily barred travelers from eight&nbsp;African countries and said Britain and the Netherlands could join the list.

Fitch Ratings said it lowered its global air passenger traffic forecasts for 2021 and 2022.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-uk-approves-gsk-covid-drug-appears-effective-against-omicron-433212">Also read |&nbsp;LIVE: UK approves GSK Covid drug, appears effective against Omicron</a>

"It feels a little bit like we are back to where we were a year ago," said Deidre Fulton, a partner at consultancy MIDAS Aviation, at an industry webinar. "And that's not a great prospect for the industry and beyond."

Wall Street's major averages fell more than 1% on Wednesday, erasing morning gains, on investor angst over the first U.S. case, along with concerns about inflation. Crude oil prices also fell.

Fauci said it could take two weeks or more to gain insight into how easily the variant spreads from person to person, how severe the disease is that it causes, and whether it can bypass the protections provided by the vaccines currently available.

"We don't have enough information right now," said Fauci, adding that the variant's molecular profile "suggests that it might be more transmissible, and that it might elude some of the protection of vaccines. ... We have to be prepared that there's going to be a diminution in protection."

Heavily mutated Omicron is rapidly becoming the dominant variant of the coronavirus in South Africa less than four weeks after it was first detected there, and the United States on Wednesday became the latest country to identify an Omicron case within its borders.

Heavily mutated Omicron is rapidly becoming the dominant variant of the coronavirus in South Africa less than four weeks after it was first detected there, and the United States on Wednesday became the latest country to identify an Omicron case within its borders. The first known US case was a fully vaccinated person in California who returned to the United States from South Africa on Nov. 22 and tested positive seven days later. The person had mild symptoms and was in self-quarantine, Dr. Anthony Fauci, the top US infectious disease official, told reporters at the White House. Late on Tuesday, airlines in the United States were told to hand over the names of passengers arriving from parts of southern Africa hit by Omicron, according to a US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention letter seen by Reuters. Key questions remain about the new variant, which has been found in two dozen countries, including Spain, Canada, Britain, Austria and Portugal. The UAE reported its first case on Wednesday, the second Gulf country after Saudi Arabia. Early indications suggesting Omicron may be markedly more contagious than previous variants have rattled financial markets, fearful that new restrictions could choke off a tentative recovery from the economic ravages of the pandemic. South Africa's National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) said early epidemiological data suggested Omicron was able to evade some immunity, but existing vaccines should still protect against severe disease and death. Also read | COVID-19: California reports the first US case of the Omicron variant It said 74% of all the virus genomes it had sequenced last month had been of the new variant, which was first found in a sample taken on Nov. 8 in Gauteng, South Africa's most populous province. The number of new cases reported in South Africa doubled from Tuesday to Wednesday. World Health Organization (WHO) epidemiologist Maria van Kerkhove told a briefing that data on how contagious Omicron was should be available "within days." BioNTech's CEO said the vaccine it makes in a partnership with Pfizer was likely to offer strong protection against severe disease from Omicron. 'PREPARE FOR THE WORST' The president of the European Union's executive body said there was a "race against time" to stave off the new variant while scientists establish how dangerous it is. The EU brought forward the start of its vaccine rollout for 5-to-11-year-olds by a week to Dec. 13. "Prepare for the worst, hope for the best," Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission, told a news conference. She said that full vaccination and a booster shot provided the strongest possible protection, according to scientists - a view echoed by Fauci. But WHO emergencies director Mike Ryan criticised developed countries pushing booster shots for large parts of their fully vaccinated populations when vulnerable people in many poorer regions have had no vaccination at all. "There is no evidence that I'm aware of that will suggest that boosting the entire population is going to necessarily provide any greater protection for otherwise healthy individuals against hospitalisation or death," he said. Britain and the United States have both expanded their booster programs in response to the new variant. The WHO has noted many times that the coronavirus will keep producing new variants for as long as it is allowed to circulate freely in large unvaccinated populations. TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS Some 56 countries were reportedly implementing travel measures to guard against Omicron as of Nov. 28, the WHO said. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres slammed what he called "travel apartheid." "Blanket travel bans will not prevent the international spread and they place a heavy burden on lives and livelihoods," the WHO said while advising those who were unwell, at risk, or 60 years and over and unvaccinated to postpone travel. The United States has barred nearly all foreigners who have been in one of eight southern African countries. Hong Kong added Japan, Portugal and Sweden to its travel restrictions. Malaysia temporarily barred travelers from eight African countries and said Britain and the Netherlands could join the list. Fitch Ratings said it lowered its global air passenger traffic forecasts for 2021 and 2022. Also read | LIVE: UK approves GSK Covid drug, appears effective against Omicron "It feels a little bit like we are back to where we were a year ago," said Deidre Fulton, a partner at consultancy MIDAS Aviation, at an industry webinar. "And that's not a great prospect for the industry and beyond." Wall Street's major averages fell more than 1% on Wednesday, erasing morning gains, on investor angst over the first U.S. case, along with concerns about inflation. Crude oil prices also fell. Fauci said it could take two weeks or more to gain insight into how easily the variant spreads from person to person, how severe the disease is that it causes, and whether it can bypass the protections provided by the vaccines currently available. "We don't have enough information right now," said Fauci, adding that the variant's molecular profile "suggests that it might be more transmissible, and that it might elude some of the protection of vaccines. ... We have to be prepared that there's going to be a diminution in protection."

New Covid variant Omicron rapidly dominating in South Africa

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on South Africans to prioritise getting vaccinated in order to avoid hospitalisation and serious illness amidst the spread of new Covid variant, Omicron. &nbsp;

The World Health Organisation has named it Omicron and has declared it a ‘variant of concern’. &nbsp;

The Omicron variant was first described in Botswana and subsequently in South Africa and scientists have also identified cases in countries, such as Hong Kong, Australia, Belgium, Italy, the United Kingdom, Germany, Austria, Denmark and Israel. &nbsp;

The identification of Omicron coincides with a sudden rise in COVID-19 infections. This rise has been centered at Gauteng while the cases are also rising in other provinces. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-omicron-variant-causing-mild-disease-says-south-african-medical-association-slams-hype-432552">South Africa medical body slams 'hype' over Covid Omicron variant</a>

"If cases continue to climb, we can expect to enter a fourth wave of infections within the next few weeks, if not sooner. This should not come as a surprise,” said Ramaphosa. &nbsp;

Epidemiologists and disease modellers have also told us that we should expect a fourth wave in early December, added the president. &nbsp;

“Scientists have also told us to expect the emergence of new variants," Ramaphosa said in address to the nation on Sunday. &nbsp;

So far, 41 per cent of the adult population in South Africa have received at least one dose of coronavirus vaccine and 35.6 per cent of adult South Africans have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19. &nbsp;

Significantly, 57 per cent of people, who are 60 years old and above, are fully vaccinated and 53 per cent of people, who are aged between 50 and 60, are fully vaccinated. &nbsp;

"Tonight, I would like to call on every person, who has not been vaccinated to go to their nearest vaccination station without delay...Vaccination is by far the most important way to protect yourself and those around you against the Omicron variant to reduce the impact of the fourth wave and to help restore the social freedoms we all yearn for," the president urged. &nbsp;

He added that government has also set up a task team that will undertake broad consultations on making vaccination mandatory for specific activities and locations. &nbsp;

"We realise that the introduction of such measures is a difficult and complex issue, but if we do not address this seriously and as a matter of urgency, we will continue to be vulnerable to new variants and will continue to suffer new waves of infection," Ramaphosa added. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/disappointed-president-cyril-ramaphosa-urges-countries-to-reverse-unjustified-travel-bans-432642">President Cyril Ramaphosa urges countries to reverse 'unjustified' travel bans</a>

Meanwhile, the government has decided that the country will continue to remain on Coronavirus Alert Level 1 for now and the National State of Disaster will remain in place. &nbsp;

"In taking the decision to not impose further restrictions at this stage, we considered the fact that when we encountered previous waves of infection, vaccines were not widely available and far fewer people were vaccinated. &nbsp;

That is no longer the case. Vaccines are available to anyone aged 12 and above, free of charge, at thousands of sites across the country. We know that they prevent severe disease and hospitalisation, the president said. &nbsp;

Shortly before his speech, the National Institute for Communicable Diseases on Sunday reported 2,858 new Covid cases, with 18 hospital admissions in the past 24 hours. &nbsp;

The proportion of positive new cases against the total new tested is 9.8%, which is higher than Saturday's (9.2%). The seven-day average is 6.1%. &nbsp;

The majority of new cases on Sunday were from Gauteng (81%), followed by the Western Cape accounting for 5% and KwaZulu-Natal accounted for 4%.&nbsp;

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on South Africans to prioritise getting vaccinated in order to avoid hospitalisation and serious illness amidst the spread of new Covid variant, Omicron.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on South Africans to prioritise getting vaccinated in order to avoid hospitalisation and serious illness amidst the spread of new Covid variant, Omicron. The World Health Organisation has named it Omicron and has declared it a ‘variant of concern’. The Omicron variant was first described in Botswana and subsequently in South Africa and scientists have also identified cases in countries, such as Hong Kong, Australia, Belgium, Italy, the United Kingdom, Germany, Austria, Denmark and Israel. The identification of Omicron coincides with a sudden rise in COVID-19 infections. This rise has been centered at Gauteng while the cases are also rising in other provinces. Also Read: South Africa medical body slams 'hype' over Covid Omicron variant "If cases continue to climb, we can expect to enter a fourth wave of infections within the next few weeks, if not sooner. This should not come as a surprise,” said Ramaphosa. Epidemiologists and disease modellers have also told us that we should expect a fourth wave in early December, added the president. “Scientists have also told us to expect the emergence of new variants," Ramaphosa said in address to the nation on Sunday. So far, 41 per cent of the adult population in South Africa have received at least one dose of coronavirus vaccine and 35.6 per cent of adult South Africans have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Significantly, 57 per cent of people, who are 60 years old and above, are fully vaccinated and 53 per cent of people, who are aged between 50 and 60, are fully vaccinated. "Tonight, I would like to call on every person, who has not been vaccinated to go to their nearest vaccination station without delay...Vaccination is by far the most important way to protect yourself and those around you against the Omicron variant to reduce the impact of the fourth wave and to help restore the social freedoms we all yearn for," the president urged. He added that government has also set up a task team that will undertake broad consultations on making vaccination mandatory for specific activities and locations. "We realise that the introduction of such measures is a difficult and complex issue, but if we do not address this seriously and as a matter of urgency, we will continue to be vulnerable to new variants and will continue to suffer new waves of infection," Ramaphosa added. Also Read: President Cyril Ramaphosa urges countries to reverse 'unjustified' travel bans Meanwhile, the government has decided that the country will continue to remain on Coronavirus Alert Level 1 for now and the National State of Disaster will remain in place. "In taking the decision to not impose further restrictions at this stage, we considered the fact that when we encountered previous waves of infection, vaccines were not widely available and far fewer people were vaccinated. That is no longer the case. Vaccines are available to anyone aged 12 and above, free of charge, at thousands of sites across the country. We know that they prevent severe disease and hospitalisation, the president said. Shortly before his speech, the National Institute for Communicable Diseases on Sunday reported 2,858 new Covid cases, with 18 hospital admissions in the past 24 hours. The proportion of positive new cases against the total new tested is 9.8%, which is higher than Saturday's (9.2%). The seven-day average is 6.1%. The majority of new cases on Sunday were from Gauteng (81%), followed by the Western Cape accounting for 5% and KwaZulu-Natal accounted for 4%.

As Omicron spreads, President Ramaphosa urges South Africans to get vaccinated

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Locals in Johannesburg gets an ecobrick school made from non-recyclable plastic

The new Covid variant, Omicron, has been imaged for the first time, revealing that it contains many more mutations than the Delta variant.

The famed Bambino Gesu hospital in Rome created and released the three-dimensional picture.&nbsp;

According to Claudia Alteri, professor of clinical microbiology at Milan State University and a researcher at Bambino Gesu, the study team concentrated on looking for changes in "the three-dimensional structure of the spike protein."&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fauci-defends-travel-ban-due-to-new-variant-omicron-says-it-is-necessary-and-justified-432668">Also read | Fauci defends travel ban due to new variant omicron, says it is necessary and justified</a>

In the three-dimensional "image", which looks like a map, "we can clearly see that the Omicron variant presents many more mutations than the Delta variant, concentrated above all in one area of the protein that interacts with human cells,", the team of researchers said in a statement Sunday.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Yes, that’s the expectation but more data is needed before we know. Here is a model from <a href="https://twitter.com/bambinogesu?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@bambinogesu</a> of the spike (S) protein targeted by vaccines &amp; antibody drugs. The red blobs show mutations in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Delta?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Delta</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Omicron?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Omicron</a>. Each blob is an opportunity to evade a spike-binding antibody. <a href="https://t.co/WkClrGLR1x">pic.twitter.com/WkClrGLR1x</a>
— David R. Liu (@davidrliu) <a href="https://twitter.com/davidrliu/status/1465047188346650629?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 28, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"This does not automatically mean that these variations are more dangerous, just that the virus has further adapted to the human species by generating another variant," the researchers said.

"Other studies will tell us if this adaptation is neutral, less dangerous, or more dangerous," they added.

While there may be additional subtle alterations, the larger ones tend to affect factors like the virus's transmissibility. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-praises-south-africa-for-quick-transparent-reporting-of-new-covid-variant-omicron-432491">Also read |&nbsp;US praises South Africa for quick, transparent reporting of new Covid variant Omicron</a>

The newest form included more than 50 mutations, which Prof Bennett described as "strange" when compared to the handful of large changes seen in prior variations.&nbsp;

Because the spike area is where the virus binds to human cells and where vaccinations are focused, mutations in this region are particularly important.

Even if a person has been vaccinated or has had Covid previously, if the variety is sufficiently different from past forms of the virus, our immune system may fail to recognise it or remember how to fight it.

According to the World Health Organization, there were at least 10 mutations in this variation associated to the receptor-binding domain on the protein spike.

Compared to two for Delta and three for Beta, this is a significant difference.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The new Covid variant, Omicron, has been imaged for the first time, revealing that it contains many more mutations than the Delta variant. The famed Bambino Gesu hospital in Rome created and released the three-dimensional picture.

The new Covid variant, Omicron, has been imaged for the first time, revealing that it contains many more mutations than the Delta variant. The famed Bambino Gesu hospital in Rome created and released the three-dimensional picture. According to Claudia Alteri, professor of clinical microbiology at Milan State University and a researcher at Bambino Gesu, the study team concentrated on looking for changes in "the three-dimensional structure of the spike protein." Also read | Fauci defends travel ban due to new variant omicron, says it is necessary and justified In the three-dimensional "image", which looks like a map, "we can clearly see that the Omicron variant presents many more mutations than the Delta variant, concentrated above all in one area of the protein that interacts with human cells,", the team of researchers said in a statement Sunday. Yes, that’s the expectation but more data is needed before we know. Here is a model from @bambinogesu of the spike (S) protein targeted by vaccines & antibody drugs. The red blobs show mutations in #Delta & #Omicron. Each blob is an opportunity to evade a spike-binding antibody. pic.twitter.com/WkClrGLR1x — David R. Liu (@davidrliu) November 28, 2021 × "This does not automatically mean that these variations are more dangerous, just that the virus has further adapted to the human species by generating another variant," the researchers said. "Other studies will tell us if this adaptation is neutral, less dangerous, or more dangerous," they added. While there may be additional subtle alterations, the larger ones tend to affect factors like the virus's transmissibility. Also read | US praises South Africa for quick, transparent reporting of new Covid variant Omicron The newest form included more than 50 mutations, which Prof Bennett described as "strange" when compared to the handful of large changes seen in prior variations. Because the spike area is where the virus binds to human cells and where vaccinations are focused, mutations in this region are particularly important. Even if a person has been vaccinated or has had Covid previously, if the variety is sufficiently different from past forms of the virus, our immune system may fail to recognise it or remember how to fight it. According to the World Health Organization, there were at least 10 mutations in this variation associated to the receptor-binding domain on the protein spike. Compared to two for Delta and three for Beta, this is a significant difference. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID-19: Omicron has high number of mutations compared to Delta, shows first image

According to the WHO, early research on the Omicron variation of COVID-19 shows that there may be an increased risk of reinfection with this variant, meaning that those who have previously been infected with COVID-19 may be more readily reinfected, although data is limited.

Vaccines, notably those against the major circulating form, Delta, are crucial in decreasing severe illness and mortality, according to the WHO.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-omicron-has-high-number-of-mutations-compared-to-delta-shows-first-image-432671">Also read | COVID-19: Omicron has high number of mutations compared to Delta, shows first image</a>

WHO is collaborating with technical partners to determine the impact of this variation on current countermeasures, such as vaccinations.

Vaccines, notably those against the major circulating form, Delta, are crucial in lowering severe illness and mortality. 
 
Watch | Omicron variant adds to Europe's woes, UK calls G7 meeting to discuss new covid-19 variant

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/omicron-variant-adds-to-europes-woes-uk-calls-g7-meeting-to-discuss-new-covid-19-variant-432658/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Current vaccinations are still effective in preventing serious illness and death. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fauci-defends-travel-ban-due-to-new-variant-omicron-says-it-is-necessary-and-justified-432668">Also read | Fauci defends travel ban due to new variant omicron, says it is necessary and justified</a>

As we've observed with previous variations, commonly used PCR tests continue to identify infection, even infection with Omicron.

Other types of testing, such as quick antigen detection tests, are being studied to see whether there is any impact.&nbsp;

According to the WHO, researchers in South Africa and around the world are conducting studies to better understand many aspects of Omicron and will continue to share the findings of these studies as they become available.

(With inputs from agencies)

According to the WHO, early research on the Omicron variation of COVID-19 shows that there may be an increased risk of reinfection with this variant, meaning that those who have previously been infected with COVID-19 may be more readily reinfected, although data is limited.

According to the WHO, early research on the Omicron variation of COVID-19 shows that there may be an increased risk of reinfection with this variant, meaning that those who have previously been infected with COVID-19 may be more readily reinfected, although data is limited. Vaccines, notably those against the major circulating form, Delta, are crucial in decreasing severe illness and mortality, according to the WHO. Also read | COVID-19: Omicron has high number of mutations compared to Delta, shows first image WHO is collaborating with technical partners to determine the impact of this variation on current countermeasures, such as vaccinations. Vaccines, notably those against the major circulating form, Delta, are crucial in lowering severe illness and mortality. Watch | Omicron variant adds to Europe's woes, UK calls G7 meeting to discuss new covid-19 variant Current vaccinations are still effective in preventing serious illness and death. Also read | Fauci defends travel ban due to new variant omicron, says it is necessary and justified As we've observed with previous variations, commonly used PCR tests continue to identify infection, even infection with Omicron. Other types of testing, such as quick antigen detection tests, are being studied to see whether there is any impact. According to the WHO, researchers in South Africa and around the world are conducting studies to better understand many aspects of Omicron and will continue to share the findings of these studies as they become available. (With inputs from agencies)

Those who had COVID-19 may be reinfected more easily with Omicron: WHO

In an exclusive interview, WION's Kalden Ongmu spoke to South African Health Minister, Joe Phaahla. Phaahla said that the number of positive cases has risen sine the detection of the variant.

Exclusive: South African Health Minister Joe Phaahla speaks to WION

Taking a precautionary measure, Joe Biden's administration restricted travel from South Africa and seven other southern African countries, including, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Lesotho, Eswatini, Mozambique and Malawi, after a new variant emerged.&nbsp;

Recently, Biden's chief medical adviser, Anthony Fauci, defended these travel restrictions as he said that they were necessary and justified.&nbsp;While speaking on ABC's “This Week," he further said that the restrictions “will slow things down” and help the US be “better prepared” for it.

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Dr. Anthony Fauci acknowledges there’s “no way” travel bans would completely prevent COVID-19 variants from entering the country, but tells <a href="https://twitter.com/GStephanopoulos?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GStephanopoulos</a> that the policies "delay it enough to get us better prepared." <a href="https://t.co/G7DDQ1ZhuC">https://t.co/G7DDQ1ZhuC</a> <a href="https://t.co/gTQrrXr6m2">pic.twitter.com/gTQrrXr6m2</a>
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He acknowledged that there is "no way" that travel bans could prevent the spread of new variants.&nbsp;

“But what you can do is you can delay it enough to get us better prepared. And that's the thing that people need to understand. If you're going to do the travel ban the way we've done now and that we're implementing right now, utilise the time that you're buying to fill in the gaps,” he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-praises-south-africa-for-quick-transparent-reporting-of-new-covid-variant-omicron-432491">Also read |&nbsp;US praises South Africa for quick, transparent reporting of new Covid variant Omicron</a>

Meanwhile, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on countries to "immediately and urgently" reverse these scientifically "unjustified" travel bans. In his first address to the nation after detection of the new variant, he said, "We call upon all those countries that have imposed travel bans on our country and our southern African sister countries to immediately and urgently reverse their decisions."

The "disappointed" President said that the ban was "not informed by science". South Africa claims it is being penalised rather than praised for finding Omicron, a potentially dangerous new variant of COVID-19.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-confirms-omicron-infections-as-us-fauci-warns-two-weeks-needed-to-study-new-strain-432636">Also read |&nbsp;Canada confirms 'Omicron' infections as US' Fauci warns two weeks needed to study new strain</a>

Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken praised South Africa's scientists for quickly identifying the new variant during his conversation with the South African Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Naledi Pandor.&nbsp;

"The Secretary expressed appreciation for the longstanding public health cooperation between the United States&nbsp;and South Africa. Secretary Blinken specifically praised South Africa’s scientists for the quick identification of the Omicron variant and South Africa’s government for its transparency in sharing this information, which should serve as a model for the world," read the statement.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Taking a precautionary measure, Joe Biden's administration restricted travel from South Africa and seven other southern African countries, including, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Lesotho, Eswatini, Mozambique and Malawi, after a new variant emerged.

Taking a precautionary measure, Joe Biden's administration restricted travel from South Africa and seven other southern African countries, including, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Lesotho, Eswatini, Mozambique and Malawi, after a new variant emerged. Recently, Biden's chief medical adviser, Anthony Fauci, defended these travel restrictions as he said that they were necessary and justified. While speaking on ABC's “This Week," he further said that the restrictions “will slow things down” and help the US be “better prepared” for it. Dr. Anthony Fauci acknowledges there’s “no way” travel bans would completely prevent COVID-19 variants from entering the country, but tells @GStephanopoulos that the policies "delay it enough to get us better prepared." https://t.co/G7DDQ1ZhuC pic.twitter.com/gTQrrXr6m2 — This Week (@ThisWeekABC) November 28, 2021 × He acknowledged that there is "no way" that travel bans could prevent the spread of new variants. “But what you can do is you can delay it enough to get us better prepared. And that's the thing that people need to understand. If you're going to do the travel ban the way we've done now and that we're implementing right now, utilise the time that you're buying to fill in the gaps,” he said. Also read | US praises South Africa for quick, transparent reporting of new Covid variant Omicron Meanwhile, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on countries to "immediately and urgently" reverse these scientifically "unjustified" travel bans. In his first address to the nation after detection of the new variant, he said, "We call upon all those countries that have imposed travel bans on our country and our southern African sister countries to immediately and urgently reverse their decisions." The "disappointed" President said that the ban was "not informed by science". South Africa claims it is being penalised rather than praised for finding Omicron, a potentially dangerous new variant of COVID-19. Also read | Canada confirms 'Omicron' infections as US' Fauci warns two weeks needed to study new strain Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken praised South Africa's scientists for quickly identifying the new variant during his conversation with the South African Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Naledi Pandor. "The Secretary expressed appreciation for the longstanding public health cooperation between the United States and South Africa. Secretary Blinken specifically praised South Africa’s scientists for the quick identification of the Omicron variant and South Africa’s government for its transparency in sharing this information, which should serve as a model for the world," read the statement. (With inputs from agencies)

Fauci defends travel ban due to new variant omicron, says it is necessary and justified

After a new Covid variant was detected in South Africa, the global authorities reacted with alarm with several imposing travel curbs and tightening border controls.&nbsp;

The South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has now called on countries to "immediately and urgently" reverse these scientifically "unjustified" travel bans. In his first address to the nation after detection of the new variant, he said, "We call upon all those countries that have imposed travel bans on our country and our southern African sister countries to immediately and urgently reverse their decisions."

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We will not be defeated by this pandemic. We have already started learning to live with it. We will endure, we will overcome and we will thrive. 
 
God bless South Africa and protect her people.<a href="https://t.co/EpfT062cmt">https://t.co/EpfT062cmt</a>
— Cyril Ramaphosa 🇿🇦 (@CyrilRamaphosa) <a href="https://twitter.com/CyrilRamaphosa/status/1465025716874096655?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 28, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The "disappointed" President said that the ban was "not informed by science".

He further urged the rich countries to give up vaccine inequality, as he described jabs as the "most powerful tool" to limit the transmission of the new variant.

Several countries have banned travellers from southern Africa over the variant fears, including, the UK, US, Canada, France, Scotland, Italy, Israel, Philippines, Germany, Singapore and Malaysia, Brazil, Saudi Arabi, and the Maldives.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-warns-against-travel-curbs-due-to-new-variant-says-closely-monitoring-432286">Also read |&nbsp;WHO warns against travel curbs due to new variant, says 'closely monitoring'</a>

The WHO has also warned against imposing travel restrictions due to the B.1.1.529 Covid-19 variant. The organisation says that it would take weeks to understand the implications of the strain.&nbsp;

"WHO is closely monitoring the recently reported variant B.1.1.529," spokesman Christian Lindmeier told a media briefing in Geneva.

"Early analysis shows that this variant has a large number of mutations that require and will undergo further study. It will take a few weeks for us to understand what impact this variant has."

"Researchers are working to understand more about the mutations and what they potentially mean for how transmissible or virulent this variant is, and how they may impact on diagnostics, therapeutics and vaccines."

Also, WHO has classified the new coronavirus strain detected in South Africa as a "variant of concern."

“This variant has a large number of mutations, some of which are concerning,” the WHO said, adding, "preliminary evidence suggests an increased risk of reinfection with this variant as compared to other variants of concern."

(With inputs from agencies)

After a new Covid variant was detected in South Africa, the global authorities reacted with alarm with several imposing travel curbs and tightening border controls.

After a new Covid variant was detected in South Africa, the global authorities reacted with alarm with several imposing travel curbs and tightening border controls. The South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has now called on countries to "immediately and urgently" reverse these scientifically "unjustified" travel bans. In his first address to the nation after detection of the new variant, he said, "We call upon all those countries that have imposed travel bans on our country and our southern African sister countries to immediately and urgently reverse their decisions." We will not be defeated by this pandemic. We have already started learning to live with it. We will endure, we will overcome and we will thrive. God bless South Africa and protect her people.https://t.co/EpfT062cmt — Cyril Ramaphosa 🇿🇦 (@CyrilRamaphosa) November 28, 2021 × The "disappointed" President said that the ban was "not informed by science". He further urged the rich countries to give up vaccine inequality, as he described jabs as the "most powerful tool" to limit the transmission of the new variant. Several countries have banned travellers from southern Africa over the variant fears, including, the UK, US, Canada, France, Scotland, Italy, Israel, Philippines, Germany, Singapore and Malaysia, Brazil, Saudi Arabi, and the Maldives. Also read | WHO warns against travel curbs due to new variant, says 'closely monitoring' The WHO has also warned against imposing travel restrictions due to the B.1.1.529 Covid-19 variant. The organisation says that it would take weeks to understand the implications of the strain. "WHO is closely monitoring the recently reported variant B.1.1.529," spokesman Christian Lindmeier told a media briefing in Geneva. "Early analysis shows that this variant has a large number of mutations that require and will undergo further study. It will take a few weeks for us to understand what impact this variant has." "Researchers are working to understand more about the mutations and what they potentially mean for how transmissible or virulent this variant is, and how they may impact on diagnostics, therapeutics and vaccines." Also, WHO has classified the new coronavirus strain detected in South Africa as a "variant of concern." “This variant has a large number of mutations, some of which are concerning,” the WHO said, adding, "preliminary evidence suggests an increased risk of reinfection with this variant as compared to other variants of concern." (With inputs from agencies)

'Disappointed' President Cyril Ramaphosa urges countries to reverse 'unjustified' travel bans

A man who returned from South Africa to Dombivali in Thane district of Maharashtra recently has tested positive for coronavirus, a Kalyan-Dombivali Municipal Corporation (KDMC) official said on Sunday.

It is not confirmed whether the patient was carrying the Omicron variant of coronavirus, which was identified as the variant of concern by the WHO, the official said.

The man had travelled from Cape Town to Dombivali on November 24.

"He underwent a COVID-19 test which returned positive," the official added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-new-variant-spreads-rapidly-india-revises-guidelines-for-international-travellers-432700">Also read |&nbsp;As new variant spreads rapidly, India revises guidelines for international travellers</a>

The man didn't come in contact with anyone after returning from South Africa, Dr Pratiba Panpatil, Medical Officer, KDMC, told reporters.

The patient is currently admitted at the Art Gallery isolation centre of the KDMC, the official said.

"The KDMC health department is on alert. We are prepared to deal with the new variant," Dr Panpail added.

A man who returned from South Africa to Dombivali in Thane district of Maharashtra recently has tested positive for coronavirus, a Kalyan-Dombivali Municipal Corporation (KDMC) official said on Sunday.

A man who returned from South Africa to Dombivali in Thane district of Maharashtra recently has tested positive for coronavirus, a Kalyan-Dombivali Municipal Corporation (KDMC) official said on Sunday. It is not confirmed whether the patient was carrying the Omicron variant of coronavirus, which was identified as the variant of concern by the WHO, the official said. The man had travelled from Cape Town to Dombivali on November 24. "He underwent a COVID-19 test which returned positive," the official added. Also read | As new variant spreads rapidly, India revises guidelines for international travellers The man didn't come in contact with anyone after returning from South Africa, Dr Pratiba Panpatil, Medical Officer, KDMC, told reporters. The patient is currently admitted at the Art Gallery isolation centre of the KDMC, the official said. "The KDMC health department is on alert. We are prepared to deal with the new variant," Dr Panpail added.

Indian man returning from South Africa tests positive in Maharashtra; strain not confirmed

Two international travellers arriving in Sydney were contaminated with the developing Omicron strain, according to urgent genetic testing.&nbsp;

"Both passengers came to Sydney from South Africa on the evening of Saturday, November 27. They underwent testing on arrival and tested positive for COVID-19 late last night.The two positive cases, who were asymptomatic, are in isolation in the special health accommodation. Both people are fully vaccinated, " NSW Health said in a statement issued on Sunday evening. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-on-alert-as-new-covid-19-variant-omicron-spreads-to-more-countries-432459">Also read | World on alert as new COVID-19 variant 'Omicron' spreads to more countries</a>

The two passengers were among 14 travellers from southern Africa who boarded Qatar Airways flight QR908 from Doha at 7 p.m. on Saturday. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-becomes-the-first-country-to-shut-all-borders-over-fear-of-new-variant-432450">Also read | Israel becomes the first country to shut all borders over fear of new variant</a>

The remaining 12 guests would be quarantined at a hotel for 14 days.

Approximately 260 passengers and crew members were identified as close contacts and have been ordered to be isolated. 
 
Watch: EU, US restrict travel from South Africa to contain new coronavirus variant

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NSW Health advised that failing to follow public health regulations was a crime, and that close connections would be contacted on a regular basis and subject to compliance inspections.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Two international travellers arriving in Sydney were contaminated with the developing Omicron strain, according to urgent genetic testing. "Both passengers came to Sydney from South Africa on the evening of Saturday, November 27.

Two international travellers arriving in Sydney were contaminated with the developing Omicron strain, according to urgent genetic testing. "Both passengers came to Sydney from South Africa on the evening of Saturday, November 27. They underwent testing on arrival and tested positive for COVID-19 late last night.The two positive cases, who were asymptomatic, are in isolation in the special health accommodation. Both people are fully vaccinated, " NSW Health said in a statement issued on Sunday evening. Also read | World on alert as new COVID-19 variant 'Omicron' spreads to more countries The two passengers were among 14 travellers from southern Africa who boarded Qatar Airways flight QR908 from Doha at 7 p.m. on Saturday. Also read | Israel becomes the first country to shut all borders over fear of new variant The remaining 12 guests would be quarantined at a hotel for 14 days. Approximately 260 passengers and crew members were identified as close contacts and have been ordered to be isolated. Watch: EU, US restrict travel from South Africa to contain new coronavirus variant NSW Health advised that failing to follow public health regulations was a crime, and that close connections would be contacted on a regular basis and subject to compliance inspections. (With inputs from agencies)

Omicron variant in Australia: Two passengers from South Africa test positive for new COVID strain

South Africa is researching the development of a continent-grown Messenger RNA vaccine -- the most effective so far in combatting the virus. It would be a vaccine that would not need to be stored all the time at ultra-cold temperatures -- a hefty requirement in some areas with regular power cuts.

South Africa researches on development of continent-grown Messenger RNA vaccine

South Africa claims it is being penalised rather than praised for finding Omicron, a potentially dangerous new variant of COVID-19.

As facts about the spread surfaced, governments throughout the world banned travel from southern Africa, prompting the foreign ministry to issue the announcement.

According to preliminary findings, Omicron appears to have a higher risk of re-infection than other virus&nbsp;classes.

South Africa is home to some of the world's best epidemiologists and scientists, who have been successful in detecting new coronavirus variations and mutations early in their life cycles. 
 
Watch: EU, US restrict travel from South Africa to contain new coronavirus variant

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South Africa was the first place where the Omicron variant was discovered, and it has subsequently been found in Belgium, Botswana, Israel, and Hong Kong.&nbsp;

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) in a statement urged world leaders not to implement "knee-jerk" policy decisions in response to the detection of the Omicron variant.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

The latest round of travel bans is "akin to punishing South Africa for its advanced genomic sequencing and the ability to detect new variants quicker. Excellent science should be applauded and not punished," it said.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-what-does-variant-of-concern-mean-432361">Also Read:&nbsp;Omicron: What does variant of concern mean?</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;

DIRCO pointed out that new variants had been detected in other countries as well and "each of those cases had no recent links with Southern Africa".

However, "the reaction to those countries is starkly different to cases in Southern Africa," it said.

Along with South Africa, travel restrictions have been imposed on Botswana, Namibia, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Lesotho, Eswatini, Malawi, Zambia, and Angola, damaging their economies, which are heavily reliant on tourism.&nbsp;

According to the WHO, Omicron is "variant of concern." 
 
Countries all over the world are scrambling to impose travel bans and restrictions on southern African countries in order to stem the spread of Omicron. 
 
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-take-weeks-to-understand-new-virus-variant-says-who-432124">Will take weeks to understand new virus variant, says WHO</a>

Travel to and from South Africa, as well as the neighbouring nations of Namibia, Zimbabwe, and Botswana, as well as Lesotho and Eswatini (formerly Swaziland), which are all landlocked inside South Africa, has been outlawed.

Mauritius, Israel, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, the United States, Canada, and the Netherlands are among the other nations. 
 
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-threat-heres-what-we-know-about-covid-b11529-or-nu-variant-likely-deadlier-than-delta-432075">New threat? Here's what we know about Covid B.1.1.529 or Nu variant, likely deadlier than Delta</a>

Many other nations followed suit, with the majority stating that only their own residents would be permitted to return after a period of quarantine.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

South Africa claims it is being penalised rather than praised for finding Omicron, a potentially dangerous new variant of COVID-19. As facts about the spread surfaced, governments throughout the world banned travel from southern Africa, prompting the foreign ministry to issue the announcement.

South Africa claims it is being penalised rather than praised for finding Omicron, a potentially dangerous new variant of COVID-19. As facts about the spread surfaced, governments throughout the world banned travel from southern Africa, prompting the foreign ministry to issue the announcement. According to preliminary findings, Omicron appears to have a higher risk of re-infection than other virus classes. South Africa is home to some of the world's best epidemiologists and scientists, who have been successful in detecting new coronavirus variations and mutations early in their life cycles. Watch: EU, US restrict travel from South Africa to contain new coronavirus variant South Africa was the first place where the Omicron variant was discovered, and it has subsequently been found in Belgium, Botswana, Israel, and Hong Kong. The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) in a statement urged world leaders not to implement "knee-jerk" policy decisions in response to the detection of the Omicron variant. The latest round of travel bans is "akin to punishing South Africa for its advanced genomic sequencing and the ability to detect new variants quicker. Excellent science should be applauded and not punished," it said. Also Read: Omicron: What does variant of concern mean? DIRCO pointed out that new variants had been detected in other countries as well and "each of those cases had no recent links with Southern Africa". However, "the reaction to those countries is starkly different to cases in Southern Africa," it said. Along with South Africa, travel restrictions have been imposed on Botswana, Namibia, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Lesotho, Eswatini, Malawi, Zambia, and Angola, damaging their economies, which are heavily reliant on tourism. According to the WHO, Omicron is "variant of concern." Countries all over the world are scrambling to impose travel bans and restrictions on southern African countries in order to stem the spread of Omicron. Also read | Will take weeks to understand new virus variant, says WHO Travel to and from South Africa, as well as the neighbouring nations of Namibia, Zimbabwe, and Botswana, as well as Lesotho and Eswatini (formerly Swaziland), which are all landlocked inside South Africa, has been outlawed. Mauritius, Israel, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, the United States, Canada, and the Netherlands are among the other nations. Also read | New threat? Here's what we know about Covid B.1.1.529 or Nu variant, likely deadlier than Delta Many other nations followed suit, with the majority stating that only their own residents would be permitted to return after a period of quarantine. (With inputs from agencies)

Omicron: South Africa says it's being 'punished' for detecting new COVID-19 variant

Just days after being discovered in South Africa, the new possibly more infectious omicron strain of the coronavirus has appeared in additional European nations, sending governments around the world rushing to stem the spread.

Following the discovery of two instances, the UK strengthened its requirements on wearing masks and testing overseas visitors on Saturday. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-becomes-the-first-country-to-shut-all-borders-over-fear-of-new-variant-432450">Also read | Israel becomes the first country to shut all borders over fear of new variant</a>

New instances were reported on Saturday in Germany and Italy, with the variation also being detected in travellers in Belgium, Israel, and Hong Kong.

In the United States, Dr&nbsp;Anthony Fauci, the government's top infectious disease specialist, said he wouldn't be shocked if the omicron version was also present.&nbsp; 
 
Watch: EU, US restrict travel from South Africa to contain new coronavirus variant

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"We have not detected it yet, but when you have a virus that is showing this degree of transmissibility and you are already having travel-related cases that they have noted in Israel and Belgium, and other places; when you have a virus like this, it almost invariably is ultimately going to go essentially all over..." Fauci said.&nbsp;

The Chairperson of the World Medical Association's Council, Frank Ulrich Montgomery, voiced alarm earlier in the day that the new coronavirus strain might be as severe as the Ebola virus and as contagious as the Delta coronavirus variation, according to Sputnik.

The new South African strain has been designated as a source of concern by the WHO because it has a high number of mutations (32), potentially making it more transmissible and deadly.

The WHO has given it the name Omicron, which is the Greek alphabet's 15th letter.

Following news of the new variety, the US, the EU, Canada, Israel, Australia, and other countries have imposed travel restrictions on many southern African countries due to health concerns.&nbsp;

In an extraordinary conference, EU officials resolved to encourage all 27 EU countries to limit travel from southern Africa.

A large number of members had previously done so.

Due to the new variation, the World Trade Organization cancelled a ministerial session, its largest in four years, at the last minute on Friday.

Vaccine makers have expressed optimism that they will be able to alter existing vaccinations to target the Omicron strain.

BioNTech of Germany and Pfizer of the United States said they expect results "within two weeks at the most" to see if their vaccine can be tweaked.

Moderna stated that it will create a booster for the new version.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Just days after being discovered in South Africa, the new possibly more infectious omicron strain of the coronavirus has appeared in additional European nations, sending governments around the world rushing to stem the spread.

Just days after being discovered in South Africa, the new possibly more infectious omicron strain of the coronavirus has appeared in additional European nations, sending governments around the world rushing to stem the spread. Following the discovery of two instances, the UK strengthened its requirements on wearing masks and testing overseas visitors on Saturday. Also read | Israel becomes the first country to shut all borders over fear of new variant New instances were reported on Saturday in Germany and Italy, with the variation also being detected in travellers in Belgium, Israel, and Hong Kong. In the United States, Dr Anthony Fauci, the government's top infectious disease specialist, said he wouldn't be shocked if the omicron version was also present. Watch: EU, US restrict travel from South Africa to contain new coronavirus variant "We have not detected it yet, but when you have a virus that is showing this degree of transmissibility and you are already having travel-related cases that they have noted in Israel and Belgium, and other places; when you have a virus like this, it almost invariably is ultimately going to go essentially all over..." Fauci said. The Chairperson of the World Medical Association's Council, Frank Ulrich Montgomery, voiced alarm earlier in the day that the new coronavirus strain might be as severe as the Ebola virus and as contagious as the Delta coronavirus variation, according to Sputnik. The new South African strain has been designated as a source of concern by the WHO because it has a high number of mutations (32), potentially making it more transmissible and deadly. The WHO has given it the name Omicron, which is the Greek alphabet's 15th letter. Following news of the new variety, the US, the EU, Canada, Israel, Australia, and other countries have imposed travel restrictions on many southern African countries due to health concerns. In an extraordinary conference, EU officials resolved to encourage all 27 EU countries to limit travel from southern Africa. A large number of members had previously done so. Due to the new variation, the World Trade Organization cancelled a ministerial session, its largest in four years, at the last minute on Friday. Vaccine makers have expressed optimism that they will be able to alter existing vaccinations to target the Omicron strain. BioNTech of Germany and Pfizer of the United States said they expect results "within two weeks at the most" to see if their vaccine can be tweaked. Moderna stated that it will create a booster for the new version. (With inputs from agencies)

World on alert as new COVID-19 variant 'Omicron' spreads to more countries

South African Medical Association (SAMA) said that the new Omicron variant of coronavirus resulted in mild disease without prominent syndromes and slammed the hype around it as several countries imposed bans on flight from African countries.

"Yes, it is transmissible, but for now, as medical practitioners, we do not know why so much hype is being driven as we are still looking into it,"&nbsp;Angelique Coetzee, the chairwoman of SAMA was quoted as saying by Sputnik news agency.

"We will only know after two to three weeks as there are some patients admitted and these are young people aged 40 and younger," Coetzee added. 
 
She criticised the decision by some countries to ban flights from South Africa as premature as there is not enough information on how dangerous it is.

World Health Organization (WHO) on Friday identified the new strain of coronavirus as Omicron. The WHO said that the new strain was 'a variant of concern.' The new strain was detected in South Africa. The virus has been seen to show more mutations - over 30 - than previous variants and is feared to be more dangerous.

"It presents mild disease with symptoms being sore muscles and tiredness for a day or two not feeling well. So far, we have detected that those infected do not suffer loss of taste or smell. They might have a slight cough. There are no prominent symptoms. Of those infected some are currently being treated at home," Coetzee said.

South Africa on Sunday said that it was being punished for reporting the virus.

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South Africa has some of the best virology facilities in the world. 
Graeme Codrington said this months ago when a previous variant was identified by South African virologists. A note to journalists who peddle myths on South African variants. These words still hold true.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Omicron?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Omicron</a> <a href="https://t.co/KtYzlleX2r">pic.twitter.com/KtYzlleX2r</a>
— James Melville (@JamesMelville) <a href="https://twitter.com/JamesMelville/status/1464615233964716040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2021</a></blockquote>
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As facts about the spread surfaced, governments throughout the world banned travel from southern Africa, prompting the foreign ministry to issue the announcement.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-praises-south-africa-for-quick-transparent-reporting-of-new-covid-variant-omicron-432491">US praises South Africa for quick, transparent reporting of new Covid variant Omicron</a>

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) in a statement urged world leaders not to implement "knee-jerk" policy decisions in response to the detection of the Omicron variant. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

The latest round of travel bans is "akin to punishing South Africa for its advanced genomic sequencing and the ability to detect new variants quicker. Excellent science should be applauded and not punished," it said.&nbsp;

Just hours after such a reaction, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-praises-south-africa-for-quick-transparent-reporting-of-new-covid-variant-omicron-432491">praise for South Africa came from the US</a>.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken praised South Africa for quickly identifying the virus and presenting the details to the world so that precautions could be taken.

"The Secretary expressed appreciation for the longstanding public health cooperation between the United States and South Africa. Secretary Blinken specifically praised South Africa’s scientists for the quick identification of the Omicron variant and South Africa’s government for its transparency in sharing this information, which should serve as a model for the world," read the statement.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

South African Medical Association (SAMA) said that the new Omicron variant of coronavirus resulted in mild disease without prominent syndromes and slammed the hype around it as several countries imposed bans on flight from African countries.

South African Medical Association (SAMA) said that the new Omicron variant of coronavirus resulted in mild disease without prominent syndromes and slammed the hype around it as several countries imposed bans on flight from African countries. "Yes, it is transmissible, but for now, as medical practitioners, we do not know why so much hype is being driven as we are still looking into it," Angelique Coetzee, the chairwoman of SAMA was quoted as saying by Sputnik news agency. "We will only know after two to three weeks as there are some patients admitted and these are young people aged 40 and younger," Coetzee added. She criticised the decision by some countries to ban flights from South Africa as premature as there is not enough information on how dangerous it is. World Health Organization (WHO) on Friday identified the new strain of coronavirus as Omicron. The WHO said that the new strain was 'a variant of concern.' The new strain was detected in South Africa. The virus has been seen to show more mutations - over 30 - than previous variants and is feared to be more dangerous. "It presents mild disease with symptoms being sore muscles and tiredness for a day or two not feeling well. So far, we have detected that those infected do not suffer loss of taste or smell. They might have a slight cough. There are no prominent symptoms. Of those infected some are currently being treated at home," Coetzee said. South Africa on Sunday said that it was being punished for reporting the virus. South Africa has some of the best virology facilities in the world. Graeme Codrington said this months ago when a previous variant was identified by South African virologists. A note to journalists who peddle myths on South African variants. These words still hold true.#Omicron pic.twitter.com/KtYzlleX2r — James Melville (@JamesMelville) November 27, 2021 × As facts about the spread surfaced, governments throughout the world banned travel from southern Africa, prompting the foreign ministry to issue the announcement. Also Read | US praises South Africa for quick, transparent reporting of new Covid variant Omicron The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) in a statement urged world leaders not to implement "knee-jerk" policy decisions in response to the detection of the Omicron variant. The latest round of travel bans is "akin to punishing South Africa for its advanced genomic sequencing and the ability to detect new variants quicker. Excellent science should be applauded and not punished," it said. Just hours after such a reaction, praise for South Africa came from the US. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken praised South Africa for quickly identifying the virus and presenting the details to the world so that precautions could be taken. "The Secretary expressed appreciation for the longstanding public health cooperation between the United States and South Africa. Secretary Blinken specifically praised South Africa’s scientists for the quick identification of the Omicron variant and South Africa’s government for its transparency in sharing this information, which should serve as a model for the world," read the statement. (With inputs from agencies)

Covid: Omicron variant causing mild disease, says South African Medical Association, slams hype 

The US has praised South Africa for quick identification of the new COVID variant and said that it should serve as a model for the world.

US praises South Africa for quick identification of new COVID variant

Taking a dig at China's handling of the deadly coronavirus, the United States praised South Africa for quickly identifying the new Covid strain and sharing this information with the world so that the required precautions could be taken.&nbsp;

While speaking to the South African Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Naledi Pandor, US Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken praised South Africa's scientists for quickly identifying the new variant.&nbsp;

"The Secretary expressed appreciation for the longstanding public health cooperation between the United States and South Africa. Secretary Blinken specifically praised South Africa’s scientists for the quick identification of the Omicron variant and South Africa’s government for its transparency in sharing this information, which should serve as a model for the world," read the statement.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-variant-in-australia-two-passengers-from-south-africa-test-positive-for-new-covid-strain-432478">Also read |&nbsp;Omicron variant in Australia: Two passengers from South Africa test positive for new COVID strain</a>

Both of them emphasised the importance of 'continued partnership' among the United States, the African Union, South Africa, and the other impacted nations in Africa to help vaccinate people and battle against the deadly coronavirus.

The US has repeatedly criticised China for their handling of coronavirus. Former US President Donald Trump had even asked for a penalty to be imposed on China for the deaths and damages caused by the "lab leak."&nbsp;

"The correspondence between Dr (Anthony) Fauci and China speaks too loudly for anyone to ignore. China should pay $10 trillion to America, and the world, for the death and destruction they have caused!" added Trump.

The US has also accused Beijing of waiting for too long before sharing crucial information about the outbreak. The US said that more transparent handling could have helped the virus from spreading at such a massive rate.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Taking a dig at China's handling of the deadly coronavirus, the United States praised South Africa for quickly identifying the new Covid strain and sharing this information with the world so that the required precautions could be taken.

Taking a dig at China's handling of the deadly coronavirus, the United States praised South Africa for quickly identifying the new Covid strain and sharing this information with the world so that the required precautions could be taken. While speaking to the South African Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Naledi Pandor, US Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken praised South Africa's scientists for quickly identifying the new variant. "The Secretary expressed appreciation for the longstanding public health cooperation between the United States and South Africa. Secretary Blinken specifically praised South Africa’s scientists for the quick identification of the Omicron variant and South Africa’s government for its transparency in sharing this information, which should serve as a model for the world," read the statement. Also read | Omicron variant in Australia: Two passengers from South Africa test positive for new COVID strain Both of them emphasised the importance of 'continued partnership' among the United States, the African Union, South Africa, and the other impacted nations in Africa to help vaccinate people and battle against the deadly coronavirus. The US has repeatedly criticised China for their handling of coronavirus. Former US President Donald Trump had even asked for a penalty to be imposed on China for the deaths and damages caused by the "lab leak." "The correspondence between Dr (Anthony) Fauci and China speaks too loudly for anyone to ignore. China should pay $10 trillion to America, and the world, for the death and destruction they have caused!" added Trump. The US has also accused Beijing of waiting for too long before sharing crucial information about the outbreak. The US said that more transparent handling could have helped the virus from spreading at such a massive rate. (With inputs from agencies)

US praises South Africa for quick, transparent reporting of new Covid variant Omicron

Global authorities are taking precautions for curbing the spread of a new coronavirus variant detected in South Africa, with several imposing travel curbs and tightening border controls.

Global authorities are taking precautions for curbing the spread of a new coronavirus variant detected in South Africa, with several imposing travel curbs and tightening border controls. Joining the European Union, recently the US will be restricting travel from South Africa and seven other southern African countries, including, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Lesotho, Eswatini, Mozambique and Malawi. Starting from Monday, only US citizens and residents will be allowed to travel from the region. The @WHO has identified a new COVID variant which is spreading through Southern Africa. As a precautionary measure until we have more information, I am ordering air travel restrictions from South Africa and seven other countries. — President Biden (@POTUS) November 26, 2021 × US President Joe Biden, in a statement, deemed it as a "precautionary measure." He further said that moving forward he will be “guided by what the science and my medical team advises.” This comes in after various countries - the UK, France, Scotland, Italy, Israel, Phillippines, Canada, have banned travellers from southern Africa over fears of the new variant. The World Health Organisation classified the new coronavirus strain detected in South Africa as a "variant of concern," naming it as Omicron. Also read | New threat? Here's what we know about Covid B.1.1.529 or Nu variant, likely deadlier than Delta "Based on the evidence presented indicative of a detrimental change in COVID-19 epidemiology, the WHO has designated B.1.1.529 as a variant of concern, named Omicron," it said. “This variant has a large number of mutations, some of which are concerning,” the WHO said, adding, "preliminary evidence suggests an increased risk of reinfection with this variant as compared to other variants of concern." B.1.1.529 has shown 50 mutations. 30 of these mutations are on the spike protein alone. Most of the COVID-19 vaccines in use target the spike protein. The virus uses spike protein to gain access to our body cells. More mutations of the spike protein means better ability for the virus to break vaccine protection. (With inputs from agencies)

As a 'precautionary measure', US to restrict travel over fears of new COVID-19 variant

EU officials have urged all 27 nations in the bloc to restrict travel from South Africa. The US will restrict travel from South Africa and seven other southern African countries to try to contain a new coronavirus variant spreading there.

EU, US restrict travel from South Africa to contain new coronavirus variant

South Africa said on Friday that imposing restrictions on travellers from the country because of a newly identified COVID-19 variant was unjustified, after a British ban on flights from southern African countries that others have followed.

South Africa hits back at travel ban, says 'unjustified'

The World Health Organization (WHO) is expected to convene an emergency meeting on Friday to discuss the potentially rapidly spreading coronavirus strain found in South Africa and Botswana that might make vaccines less effective and scuttle efforts to fight the pandemic. It goes by the scientific label B11 529.

New COVID variant discovered in South Africa

Scientists in South Africa have detected a new COVID-19 variant with multiple mutations, blaming it for a surge in infection numbers.

Scientists in South Africa detect new variant of COVID-19

South Africa on Friday termed the UK's travel ban from six southern African countries “rushed”, even as several countries, including the 27-member EU, announced similar restrictions.

Britain joined the EU, Israel and other countries to temporarily ban flights from South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Lesotho and Eswatini after a new Covid variant the B.1.1.529 was detected in these countries.

Even though only 60 cases have been reported, scientists are concerned by its high number of mutations which could help it evade the body's immune response and make it more transmissible.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-take-weeks-to-understand-new-virus-variant-says-who-432124">Will take weeks to understand new virus variant, says WHO</a>

"Our immediate concern is the damage that this decision will cause to both the tourism industries and businesses of both countries," South Africa's Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor said in a statement.

South Africa will engage with British authorities to try to get them to reconsider their decision, the statement added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-threat-heres-what-we-know-about-covid-b11529-or-nu-variant-likely-deadlier-than-delta-432075">New threat? Here's what we know about Covid B.1.1.529 or Nu variant, likely deadlier than Delta</a>

South Africa has requested an urgent sitting of a World Health Organization working group on virus evolution on Friday to discuss the new variant, reported Reuters.

Meanwhile, Australia has said that it will wait for the advisory from the WHO before it decides to close its border for the southern African countries.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-new-variant-emerges-india-to-tighten-covid-testing-for-international-tourists-432018">As new variant emerges, India to tighten Covid testing for international tourists &nbsp;</a>&nbsp;

Apart from Britain, the European Commission (EC), too, has proposed to suspend air travel from southern Africa amid concerns over the variant.

EC President Ursula Von der Leyen said the proposal could be enacted as soon as Friday night.

According to WHO, the latest variant is the most heavily mutated version discovered so far.

Singapore is also barring arrivals from the region and Japan tightened border controls for those arriving from southern Africa. India is stepping up tests for international arrivals.

(With inputs from agencies)

South Africa on Friday termed the UK's travel ban from six southern African countries “rushed”, even as several countries, including the 27-member EU, announced similar restrictions.

South Africa on Friday termed the UK's travel ban from six southern African countries “rushed”, even as several countries, including the 27-member EU, announced similar restrictions. Britain joined the EU, Israel and other countries to temporarily ban flights from South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Lesotho and Eswatini after a new Covid variant the B.1.1.529 was detected in these countries. Even though only 60 cases have been reported, scientists are concerned by its high number of mutations which could help it evade the body's immune response and make it more transmissible. Also read | Will take weeks to understand new virus variant, says WHO "Our immediate concern is the damage that this decision will cause to both the tourism industries and businesses of both countries," South Africa's Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor said in a statement. South Africa will engage with British authorities to try to get them to reconsider their decision, the statement added. Also read | New threat? Here's what we know about Covid B.1.1.529 or Nu variant, likely deadlier than Delta South Africa has requested an urgent sitting of a World Health Organization working group on virus evolution on Friday to discuss the new variant, reported Reuters. Meanwhile, Australia has said that it will wait for the advisory from the WHO before it decides to close its border for the southern African countries. Also read | As new variant emerges, India to tighten Covid testing for international tourists Apart from Britain, the European Commission (EC), too, has proposed to suspend air travel from southern Africa amid concerns over the variant. EC President Ursula Von der Leyen said the proposal could be enacted as soon as Friday night. According to WHO, the latest variant is the most heavily mutated version discovered so far. Singapore is also barring arrivals from the region and Japan tightened border controls for those arriving from southern Africa. India is stepping up tests for international arrivals. (With inputs from agencies)

South Africa says UK’s travel ban order 'seems rushed' as new Covid variant raises alarm

Even as several countries and the WHO is on their toes over the emergence of a new coronavirus variant, Australia on Friday said it has no plans to restrict flights from South Africa, from where the new strain has surfaced.

Australia’s health minister Greg Hunt said the officials were assessing the threat posed by the strain and would not introduce restrictions on arrivals from southern Africa yet.

Hunt said that he was advised by the country’s chief medical officer, Paul Kelly, that there was “no basis for change” in border arrangements, but he assured to “act quickly if there’s advice”.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-take-weeks-to-understand-new-virus-variant-says-who-432124">Will take weeks to understand new virus variant, says WHO</a>

“The world is learning and looking [at] the strain. At this stage they are gathering information [but] we’re flexible and if the medical advice is we need to change then we won’t hesitate,” the Guardian quoted Hunt as saying on Friday.

Meanwhile, several countries have announced travel curbs from southern Africa.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-threat-heres-what-we-know-about-covid-b11529-or-nu-variant-likely-deadlier-than-delta-432075">New threat? Here's what we know about Covid B.1.1.529 or Nu variant, likely deadlier than Delta</a>

So far, 59 confirmed cases of the emerging B.1.1.529 variant have been identified in South Africa, Hong Kong and Botswana.

The UK on Friday announced it would ban flights from southern parts of Africa amid concern about the emerging B.1.1.529 variant.

The European Commission (EC), too, has proposed to suspend air travel from southern Africa amid concerns over the variant.

EC President Ursula Von der Leyen said the proposal could be enacted as soon as Friday night.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-new-variant-emerges-india-to-tighten-covid-testing-for-international-tourists-432018">As new variant emerges, India to tighten Covid testing for international tourists &nbsp;</a>&nbsp;

India has put all travellers from Botswana, South Africa and Hong Kong in ‘at risk’ category, and issued an advisory to undertake rigoruous test and screening at the airports.

Meanwhile, the World Health Organisation is monitoring B.1.1.529 variant and will hold a “special meeting” on Friday to discuss if the heavily mutated strain will become a variant of interest or a variant of concern.

According to WHO, the latest variant is the most heavily mutated version discovered so far.

The new variant has been red-flagged by scientists over an alarmingly high number of spike mutations that might make the virus more resistant to vaccines, increase its transmissibility and lead to more severe COVID-19 symptoms.

(With inputs from agencies)

Even as several countries and the WHO is on their toes over the emergence of a new coronavirus variant, Australia on Friday said it has no plans to restrict flights from South Africa, from where the new strain has surfaced.

Even as several countries and the WHO is on their toes over the emergence of a new coronavirus variant, Australia on Friday said it has no plans to restrict flights from South Africa, from where the new strain has surfaced. Australia’s health minister Greg Hunt said the officials were assessing the threat posed by the strain and would not introduce restrictions on arrivals from southern Africa yet. Hunt said that he was advised by the country’s chief medical officer, Paul Kelly, that there was “no basis for change” in border arrangements, but he assured to “act quickly if there’s advice”. Also read | Will take weeks to understand new virus variant, says WHO “The world is learning and looking [at] the strain. At this stage they are gathering information [but] we’re flexible and if the medical advice is we need to change then we won’t hesitate,” the Guardian quoted Hunt as saying on Friday. Meanwhile, several countries have announced travel curbs from southern Africa. Also read | New threat? Here's what we know about Covid B.1.1.529 or Nu variant, likely deadlier than Delta So far, 59 confirmed cases of the emerging B.1.1.529 variant have been identified in South Africa, Hong Kong and Botswana. The UK on Friday announced it would ban flights from southern parts of Africa amid concern about the emerging B.1.1.529 variant. The European Commission (EC), too, has proposed to suspend air travel from southern Africa amid concerns over the variant. EC President Ursula Von der Leyen said the proposal could be enacted as soon as Friday night. Also read | As new variant emerges, India to tighten Covid testing for international tourists India has put all travellers from Botswana, South Africa and Hong Kong in ‘at risk’ category, and issued an advisory to undertake rigoruous test and screening at the airports. Meanwhile, the World Health Organisation is monitoring B.1.1.529 variant and will hold a “special meeting” on Friday to discuss if the heavily mutated strain will become a variant of interest or a variant of concern. According to WHO, the latest variant is the most heavily mutated version discovered so far. The new variant has been red-flagged by scientists over an alarmingly high number of spike mutations that might make the virus more resistant to vaccines, increase its transmissibility and lead to more severe COVID-19 symptoms. (With inputs from agencies)

Australia says borders to remain open to South Africa despite concerns over new Covid variant

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