As the Omicron variant continues to spread at a fast pace, the World Health Organisation announced that the variant is now in 89 countries in total. There is not much information on this newly discovered variant.&nbsp;Scientists are currently struggling to identify the symptoms of Omicron.

Elaborating on the variant, WHO said, “There are still limited data on the clinical severity of Omicron. More data are needed to understand the severity profile and how severity is impacted by vaccination and pre-existing immunity."

“There are still limited available data, and no peer-reviewed evidence, on vaccine efficacy or effectiveness to date for Omicron,” it added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-has-doubling-time-of-15-to-3-days-will-outpace-delta-in-community-transmission-who-438010">Also read |&nbsp;Omicron has doubling time of 1.5 to 3 days, will outpace Delta in community transmission: WHO</a>

Recently, the chief executive of South Africa-based Discovery Health, Ryan Noach, said that the majority of patients all over the world have reported scratchy throat as an early symptom of the Omicron variant.

He further highlighted that even though these symptoms are mild at this point, it cannot be concluded if the variant is less severe or virulent.

The WHO further revealed that the variant has a doubling time of 1.5 to 3 days.

Identified as a variant of concern, it is likely that Omicron will outpace Delta where community transmission occurs.

In its ‘Enhancing Readiness for Omicron (B.1.1.529): Technical Brief and Priority Actions for Member States’ report, WHO said, "Omicron is spreading rapidly in countries with high levels of population immunity and it remains uncertain to what extent the observed rapid growth rate can be attributed to immune evasion, intrinsic increased transmissibility or a combination of both."

(With inputs from agencies)

As the Omicron variant continues to spread at a fast pace, the World Health Organisation announced that the variant is now in 89 countries in total. There is not much information on this newly discovered variant.

As the Omicron variant continues to spread at a fast pace, the World Health Organisation announced that the variant is now in 89 countries in total. There is not much information on this newly discovered variant. Scientists are currently struggling to identify the symptoms of Omicron. Elaborating on the variant, WHO said, “There are still limited data on the clinical severity of Omicron. More data are needed to understand the severity profile and how severity is impacted by vaccination and pre-existing immunity." “There are still limited available data, and no peer-reviewed evidence, on vaccine efficacy or effectiveness to date for Omicron,” it added. Also read | Omicron has doubling time of 1.5 to 3 days, will outpace Delta in community transmission: WHO Recently, the chief executive of South Africa-based Discovery Health, Ryan Noach, said that the majority of patients all over the world have reported scratchy throat as an early symptom of the Omicron variant. He further highlighted that even though these symptoms are mild at this point, it cannot be concluded if the variant is less severe or virulent. The WHO further revealed that the variant has a doubling time of 1.5 to 3 days. Identified as a variant of concern, it is likely that Omicron will outpace Delta where community transmission occurs. In its ‘Enhancing Readiness for Omicron (B.1.1.529): Technical Brief and Priority Actions for Member States’ report, WHO said, "Omicron is spreading rapidly in countries with high levels of population immunity and it remains uncertain to what extent the observed rapid growth rate can be attributed to immune evasion, intrinsic increased transmissibility or a combination of both." (With inputs from agencies)

Omicron has now spread to 89 countries: WHO

In what comes as a shocking revelation, scientific advisors to Britain's government has said that it was "almost certain" that thousands of people are being infected with the new Omicron variant every day. Also, hospital admissions are likely to increase in the coming time.&nbsp;

Recently published data showed that the confirmed Omicron cases hit 24,968 on December 17. This is an increase of 10,000 cases in 24 hours.

The Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies said, "Currently observed numbers of Omicron infections admitted to hospital in the UK are probably around one-tenth of the true number because the data lags of hospital reporting."

The revelation comes in when the UK has been recording a record number of cases every day.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-evidence-to-suggest-new-variant-omicron-less-severe-than-delta-reveals-uk-study-437843">Also read |&nbsp;No evidence to suggest new variant Omicron less severe than Delta, reveals UK study</a>

The surge comes in as the Omicron variant has increased exponentially in the country. PM Boris Johnson had announced "Plan B" to battle the spread of the virus.&nbsp;

The UK government had made masks mandatory in public transport and in shops and imposed mandatory Covid tests for travellers arriving in the UK.

Meanwhile, another study has revealed that there is no evidence to suggest cases of new variant are less severe than Delta.&nbsp;

The team suggested the findings on the basis of the proportion of people testing positive, who had symptoms or went to the hospital. The study showed that having Covid earlier provides only 19 per cent protection against Omicron while getting two doses of a vaccine made it just 20 per cent. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In what comes as a shocking revelation, scientific advisors to Britain's government has said that it was "almost certain" that thousands of people are being infected with the new Omicron variant every day.

In what comes as a shocking revelation, scientific advisors to Britain's government has said that it was "almost certain" that thousands of people are being infected with the new Omicron variant every day. Also, hospital admissions are likely to increase in the coming time. Recently published data showed that the confirmed Omicron cases hit 24,968 on December 17. This is an increase of 10,000 cases in 24 hours. The Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies said, "Currently observed numbers of Omicron infections admitted to hospital in the UK are probably around one-tenth of the true number because the data lags of hospital reporting." The revelation comes in when the UK has been recording a record number of cases every day. Also read | No evidence to suggest new variant Omicron less severe than Delta, reveals UK study The surge comes in as the Omicron variant has increased exponentially in the country. PM Boris Johnson had announced "Plan B" to battle the spread of the virus. The UK government had made masks mandatory in public transport and in shops and imposed mandatory Covid tests for travellers arriving in the UK. Meanwhile, another study has revealed that there is no evidence to suggest cases of new variant are less severe than Delta. The team suggested the findings on the basis of the proportion of people testing positive, who had symptoms or went to the hospital. The study showed that having Covid earlier provides only 19 per cent protection against Omicron while getting two doses of a vaccine made it just 20 per cent. (With inputs from agencies)

Many more infected with Omicron variant than reported, say UK scientists

Despite taking several measures to keep a check on the spread of Omicron, 12 more people have tested positive for new Covid variant in Delhi on Friday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The total number of cases has reached to 22. Most of the patients are "fully vaccinated" and "asymptomatic", the officials said. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/101-cases-of-omicron-variant-detected-in-india-so-far-says-health-department-official-437703" hreflang="en">101 cases of Omicron variant detected in India so far, says health department official</a>

Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain said that 10 of the 22 patients have already been discharged. &nbsp;

Lok Nayak Hospital’s senior doctor said that two Omicron patients are "contacts of those, who had tested Covid positive upon arrival at the airport". &nbsp;

"Some of them have mild symptoms, such as mild fever, bodyache and sore throat," Jain said. &nbsp;

A special facility has been set up at Lok Nayak Hospital to isolate and treat suspected Omicron cases. Around 40 people have been currently admitted in this facility, said LNJP's medical director Suresh Kumar. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-pm-modi-conferred-with-highest-civilian-honour-of-bhutan-heres-what-you-should-know-437675" hreflang="en">Indian PM Modi conferred with highest civilian honour of Bhutan. Here's what you should know</a>

Many travellers, who are coming from abroad, have been turning Covid positive upon arrival at the Indira Gandhi International Airport, the minister said on Thursday. &nbsp;

Jain also said that the Omicron has not spread in the community so far. On Tuesday, he said that the situation is under control. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Despite taking several measures to keep a check on the spread of Omicron, 12 more people have tested positive for new Covid variant in Delhi on Friday. The total number of cases has reached to 22.

Despite taking several measures to keep a check on the spread of Omicron, 12 more people have tested positive for new Covid variant in Delhi on Friday. The total number of cases has reached to 22. Most of the patients are "fully vaccinated" and "asymptomatic", the officials said. Also Read: 101 cases of Omicron variant detected in India so far, says health department official Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain said that 10 of the 22 patients have already been discharged. Lok Nayak Hospital’s senior doctor said that two Omicron patients are "contacts of those, who had tested Covid positive upon arrival at the airport". "Some of them have mild symptoms, such as mild fever, bodyache and sore throat," Jain said. A special facility has been set up at Lok Nayak Hospital to isolate and treat suspected Omicron cases. Around 40 people have been currently admitted in this facility, said LNJP's medical director Suresh Kumar. Also Read: Indian PM Modi conferred with highest civilian honour of Bhutan. Here's what you should know Many travellers, who are coming from abroad, have been turning Covid positive upon arrival at the Indira Gandhi International Airport, the minister said on Thursday. Jain also said that the Omicron has not spread in the community so far. On Tuesday, he said that the situation is under control. (With inputs from agencies)

Omicron variant: 12 new cases surface in Indian capital

Even as the country is witnessing a drop in the number of coronavirus cases, four new cases of Omicron variant have come up in India’s national capital, New Delhi. The total number of such cases has reached six in the city. &nbsp;

The new variant, which was first detected in southern Africa, has been a cause of concern as the experts are still ascertaining its effect on the pandemic. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-researchers-develop-test-to-detect-omicron-variant-in-just-90-min-436633" hreflang="en">Indian researchers develop test to detect Omicron variant in just 90 min</a>

Several countries have also taken numerous measures to keep a check on the spread of this variant. Still, it has been reported in various nations around the world. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The six patients with Omicron variant of coronavirus in Delhi had mild symptoms. One of them has already recovered.&nbsp;

"Four new Omicron cases were detected, taking the total number of cases to six. Of the six cases, one patient has been discharged from the hospital. Currently, 35 Covid positive patients and three suspected cases are admitted in LNJP hospital," said Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-votes-against-unsc-draft-resolution-which-sought-to-securitise-climate-action-436687" hreflang="en">India votes against UNSC draft resolution which sought to 'securitise' climate action</a>

The first patient with Omicron variant of the city has been discharged from hospital, said officials on Tuesday. &nbsp;

India has registered 5,784 new coronavirus infections. It is the lowest tally in 571 days. The active cases have also declined to 88,993, which is the lowest in 563 days, as per the Union Health Ministry data updated on Tuesday. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Even as the country is witnessing a drop in the number of coronavirus cases, four new cases of Omicron variant have come up in India’s national capital, New Delhi.

Even as the country is witnessing a drop in the number of coronavirus cases, four new cases of Omicron variant have come up in India’s national capital, New Delhi. The total number of such cases has reached six in the city. The new variant, which was first detected in southern Africa, has been a cause of concern as the experts are still ascertaining its effect on the pandemic. Also Read: Indian researchers develop test to detect Omicron variant in just 90 min Several countries have also taken numerous measures to keep a check on the spread of this variant. Still, it has been reported in various nations around the world. The six patients with Omicron variant of coronavirus in Delhi had mild symptoms. One of them has already recovered. "Four new Omicron cases were detected, taking the total number of cases to six. Of the six cases, one patient has been discharged from the hospital. Currently, 35 Covid positive patients and three suspected cases are admitted in LNJP hospital," said Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain. Also Read: India votes against UNSC draft resolution which sought to 'securitise' climate action The first patient with Omicron variant of the city has been discharged from hospital, said officials on Tuesday. India has registered 5,784 new coronavirus infections. It is the lowest tally in 571 days. The active cases have also declined to 88,993, which is the lowest in 563 days, as per the Union Health Ministry data updated on Tuesday. (With inputs from agencies)

Covid's Omicron variant: Four new cases identified in India’s capital

As Omicron cases are rapidly spreading all across the world, a latest study has revealed that a three-shot course of the Pfizer-BioNTech Covid vaccine offers protection against the new variant, Omicron.&nbsp;The study was carried out by the Sheba Medical Center and the Health Ministry’s Central Virology Laboratory.&nbsp;

As a part of the study,&nbsp;a comparison was made between the blood of 20 people who had received two vaccine doses 5-6 months prior to the same number of people who had received a booster just a month before.&nbsp;

The findings are very similar to those of a study presented by Pfizer-BioNTech a week before. The study stated that the vaccine neutralises the Omicron variant of coronavirus.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/study-demonstrates-three-doses-of-pfizer-biontech-vaccine-neutralises-omicron-variant-435221">Also read |&nbsp;Study demonstrates three doses of Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine neutralises Omicron variant</a>

Omicron counts more than 30 mutations on the spike protein. The company has said that although two doses of the vaccine offer a high level of protection, the third jab increases efficacy by 25 per cent.&nbsp;

According to a report by Times of Israel, Prof. Gili Regev Yochay of Sheba Medical Center has deemed her research as “very worrisome."&nbsp;

However, she further said that it also gives a little optimism regarding the power of boosters to fight Omicron.

“The fact that Omicron is somewhat resistant to the vaccine is very much apparent when you’re only with two doses, and much less substantive after a third dose, she said during a media briefing.&nbsp;

Pfizer is expected to deliver an Omicron-based vaccine in March 2022. It is currently under development by BioNTech.

(With inputs from agencies)

As Omicron cases are rapidly spreading all across the world, a latest study has revealed that a three-shot course of the Pfizer-BioNTech Covid vaccine offers protection against the new variant, Omicron.

As Omicron cases are rapidly spreading all across the world, a latest study has revealed that a three-shot course of the Pfizer-BioNTech Covid vaccine offers protection against the new variant, Omicron. The study was carried out by the Sheba Medical Center and the Health Ministry’s Central Virology Laboratory. As a part of the study, a comparison was made between the blood of 20 people who had received two vaccine doses 5-6 months prior to the same number of people who had received a booster just a month before. The findings are very similar to those of a study presented by Pfizer-BioNTech a week before. The study stated that the vaccine neutralises the Omicron variant of coronavirus. Also read | Study demonstrates three doses of Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine neutralises Omicron variant Omicron counts more than 30 mutations on the spike protein. The company has said that although two doses of the vaccine offer a high level of protection, the third jab increases efficacy by 25 per cent. According to a report by Times of Israel, Prof. Gili Regev Yochay of Sheba Medical Center has deemed her research as “very worrisome." However, she further said that it also gives a little optimism regarding the power of boosters to fight Omicron. “The fact that Omicron is somewhat resistant to the vaccine is very much apparent when you’re only with two doses, and much less substantive after a third dose, she said during a media briefing. Pfizer is expected to deliver an Omicron-based vaccine in March 2022. It is currently under development by BioNTech. (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli study finds Pfizer booster to be effective against Omicron variant

To keep a check on the spread of Omicron variant of coronavirus in the country, Israel has extended its tough travel restrictions for 10 days. It has imposed entry ban on all foreign nationals. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The restrictions, which have been imposed on passengers arriving at Israel's Ben-Gurion International Airport, will continue to be in place till at least December 22. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-people-who-had-taken-booster-shots-test-positive-for-omicron-in-singapore-435786" hreflang="en">Two people, who had taken booster shots test positive for Omicron, in Singapore</a>

The directive was given in a statement issued by Israel's Prime Minister Neftali Bennett and Health Minister Nitzan Horowitz on Thursday night. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In the current measures in place, Israelis, who are returning, must self-quarantine until they get a confirmed negative coronavirus PCR test result. &nbsp;

And the people, who are arriving from high-risk countries, need to isolate at a state-governed quarantine hotel until a negative PCR test result comes. &nbsp;

In coming days, additional restrictions and incentives for Covid vaccination may also be imposed, the statement added. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-warns-against-vaccine-hoarding-as-world-is-in-a-perilous-situation-435675">WHO warns against vaccine hoarding as world is in a 'perilous situation'</a>

Till now, at least 21 cases of the highly mutated Omicron coronavirus variant, which first detected in southern Africa, have been found in Israel. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Israel had earlier declared a 10-day quarantine for those hit by the Omicron variant, however, the number of days has been increased to 14 days. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

To keep a check on the spread of Omicron variant of coronavirus in the country, Israel has extended its tough travel restrictions for 10 days. It has imposed entry ban on all foreign nationals.

To keep a check on the spread of Omicron variant of coronavirus in the country, Israel has extended its tough travel restrictions for 10 days. It has imposed entry ban on all foreign nationals. The restrictions, which have been imposed on passengers arriving at Israel's Ben-Gurion International Airport, will continue to be in place till at least December 22. Also Read: Two people, who had taken booster shots test positive for Omicron, in Singapore The directive was given in a statement issued by Israel's Prime Minister Neftali Bennett and Health Minister Nitzan Horowitz on Thursday night. In the current measures in place, Israelis, who are returning, must self-quarantine until they get a confirmed negative coronavirus PCR test result. And the people, who are arriving from high-risk countries, need to isolate at a state-governed quarantine hotel until a negative PCR test result comes. In coming days, additional restrictions and incentives for Covid vaccination may also be imposed, the statement added. Also Read: WHO warns against vaccine hoarding as world is in a 'perilous situation' Till now, at least 21 cases of the highly mutated Omicron coronavirus variant, which first detected in southern Africa, have been found in Israel. Israel had earlier declared a 10-day quarantine for those hit by the Omicron variant, however, the number of days has been increased to 14 days. (With inputs from agencies)

With Omicron variant on mind, Israel extends travel restrictions for 10 days

Thailand&nbsp;has detected its first case of the Omicron coronavirus variant in a U.S. citizen who had travelled to the country from Spain late last month, a health official said on Monday.

"We believe that we've detected the first confirmed case of Omicron variant in&nbsp;Thailand. The person travelled from Spain," Director-General of Medical Science Department at the Public Health Ministry, Supakit Sirilak, told a news conference.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-scare-in-the-united-kingdom-new-cases-increase-by-50-in-a-single-day-434428">Also read |&nbsp;Omicron scare: In the United Kingdom, new cases increase by 50% in a single day</a>

The confirmed case in the man, who had arrived on November&nbsp;29, makes&nbsp;Thailand&nbsp;the 47th country to have found the new variant, an official said, adding that the patient had mild symptom.

Thailand&nbsp;reported 4,000 new coronavirus cases and 22 new deaths on Monday, taking the tally to more than 2.1 million cases and 20,966 deaths since the pandemic started last year.

Thailand has detected its first case of the Omicron coronavirus variant in a U.S. citizen who had travelled to the country from Spain late last month, a health official said on Monday.

Thailand has detected its first case of the Omicron coronavirus variant in a U.S. citizen who had travelled to the country from Spain late last month, a health official said on Monday. "We believe that we've detected the first confirmed case of Omicron variant in Thailand. The person travelled from Spain," Director-General of Medical Science Department at the Public Health Ministry, Supakit Sirilak, told a news conference. Also read | Omicron scare: In the United Kingdom, new cases increase by 50% in a single day The confirmed case in the man, who had arrived on November 29, makes Thailand the 47th country to have found the new variant, an official said, adding that the patient had mild symptom. Thailand reported 4,000 new coronavirus cases and 22 new deaths on Monday, taking the tally to more than 2.1 million cases and 20,966 deaths since the pandemic started last year.

Omicron scare: Thailand reports first case of new Covid variant

While the world struggles to battle with the delta variant, another variant of Covid has already emerged.&nbsp; 
The World Health Organization's chief scientist, Soumya Swaminathan, has said that the Omicron variant could become dominant because it is highly transmissible. She further added that a different vaccine may not be needed.

"It is possible that it could become (the) dominant variant," Swaminathan said.&nbsp;She further added that it is too early to predict if the Omicron variant is milder than other variants of the deadly coronavirus.&nbsp; "How worried should we be? We need to be prepared and cautious, not panic, because we're in a different situation to a year ago," Swaminathan said.&nbsp;

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The World Health Organization's chief scientist Soumya Swaminathan told the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ReutersNext?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ReutersNext</a> conference that while the Omicron coronavirus variant appeared to be very transmissible, the right response was to be prepared, cautious and not panic <a href="https://t.co/POlVHCPEcd">https://t.co/POlVHCPEcd</a> <a href="https://t.co/x93cE5gBHe">pic.twitter.com/x93cE5gBHe</a>
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Several scientists in the EU and Australia have predicted that Omicron may lead to more infections than Delta as it may spread more rapidly.&nbsp;

Earlier, Dr Tom Peacock, a virologist at Imperial College had deemed the combination of mutations found in the new Covid variant as "horrific".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-world-continues-to-battle-the-delta-variant-a-new-variant-worse-than-delta-emerges-431786">Also read |&nbsp;As world continues to battle the Delta variant, a new variant 'worse than delta' emerges</a>

He further said that the variant could be 'worse than nearly anything else about', including the highly transmissible Delta strain.&nbsp;

Taking to his Twitter, he wrote, "Worth emphasising this is at super low numbers right now in a region of Africa that is fairly well sampled, however it very very much should be monitored due to that horrific spike profile."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-fears-of-new-covid-variant-looms-europe-surpasses-75-million-covid-cases-433994">Also read |&nbsp;As fears of new Covid variant looms, Europe surpasses 75 million Covid cases</a>

However, Swaminathan in her interview with Reuters said that as of now, there is conclusive evidence about Omicron's impact on the effectiveness of antibodies. "It does seem to be able to overcome some of the natural immunity from previous infection.

The fact that they're not getting sick ... that means the vaccines are still providing protection and we would hope that they would continue to provide protection," she said.

(With inputs from agencies)

While the world struggles to battle with the delta variant, another variant of Covid has already emerged. The World Health Organization's chief scientist, Soumya Swaminathan, has said that the Omicron variant could become dominant because it is highly transmissible.

While the world struggles to battle with the delta variant, another variant of Covid has already emerged. The World Health Organization's chief scientist, Soumya Swaminathan, has said that the Omicron variant could become dominant because it is highly transmissible. She further added that a different vaccine may not be needed. "It is possible that it could become (the) dominant variant," Swaminathan said. She further added that it is too early to predict if the Omicron variant is milder than other variants of the deadly coronavirus. "How worried should we be? We need to be prepared and cautious, not panic, because we're in a different situation to a year ago," Swaminathan said. The World Health Organization's chief scientist Soumya Swaminathan told the #ReutersNext conference that while the Omicron coronavirus variant appeared to be very transmissible, the right response was to be prepared, cautious and not panic https://t.co/POlVHCPEcd pic.twitter.com/x93cE5gBHe — Reuters (@Reuters) December 3, 2021 × Several scientists in the EU and Australia have predicted that Omicron may lead to more infections than Delta as it may spread more rapidly. Earlier, Dr Tom Peacock, a virologist at Imperial College had deemed the combination of mutations found in the new Covid variant as "horrific". Also read | As world continues to battle the Delta variant, a new variant 'worse than delta' emerges He further said that the variant could be 'worse than nearly anything else about', including the highly transmissible Delta strain. Taking to his Twitter, he wrote, "Worth emphasising this is at super low numbers right now in a region of Africa that is fairly well sampled, however it very very much should be monitored due to that horrific spike profile." Also read | As fears of new Covid variant looms, Europe surpasses 75 million Covid cases However, Swaminathan in her interview with Reuters said that as of now, there is conclusive evidence about Omicron's impact on the effectiveness of antibodies. "It does seem to be able to overcome some of the natural immunity from previous infection. The fact that they're not getting sick ... that means the vaccines are still providing protection and we would hope that they would continue to provide protection," she said. (With inputs from agencies)

Omicron variant highly transmissible, could become dominant, says WHO's top scientist

With the continuous emergence of new variants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, scientists are looking to understand the role of people with compromised immune systems in the origin of these tormenting mutations of the virus. &nbsp;

To find the reason for origin of variants, the researchers are looking at mutations, which appear in an infected patient with a compromised immune system. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-variant-highly-transmissible-could-become-dominant-says-whos-top-scientist-433999" hreflang="en">Omicron highly transmissible, could become dominant, says WHO's top scientist</a>

"When a patient is immune-compromised, the virus will remain in their system for a long time, sometimes several months, compared to just a few days in an average person. His immune defence system is too weak and he can't manage to rid himself of the virus," Morgane Bomsel, a virologist at the CNRS and the Cochin Institute in Paris, told FRANCE 24. &nbsp;&nbsp;

As per a study published last month in ‘Nature Communications’ journal, a 58-year-old man, who had a history of kidney disease, remained Covid positive for over six months. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/omicron-how-well-prepared-is-india-to-tackle-a-possible-spread-of-new-covid-variant-434064" hreflang="en">Omicron: How well-prepared is India to tackle a spread of new Covid variant?</a>

"Among immunocompromised patients, the immune system will not manage to beat the virus, but it will still fight against it. That will provoke what we call selection pressure," Vincent Maréchal, professor, virology, Sorbonne University, told FRANCE 24. &nbsp;

In the battle between immune system and virus, the latter evolves and retains only the mutations to allow it to continue to reproduce and survive. This virus, which has mutations, can be passed on if the patient infects anyone. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

With the continuous emergence of new variants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, scientists are looking to understand the role of people with compromised immune systems in the origin of these tormenting mutations of the virus.

With the continuous emergence of new variants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, scientists are looking to understand the role of people with compromised immune systems in the origin of these tormenting mutations of the virus. To find the reason for origin of variants, the researchers are looking at mutations, which appear in an infected patient with a compromised immune system. Also Read: Omicron highly transmissible, could become dominant, says WHO's top scientist "When a patient is immune-compromised, the virus will remain in their system for a long time, sometimes several months, compared to just a few days in an average person. His immune defence system is too weak and he can't manage to rid himself of the virus," Morgane Bomsel, a virologist at the CNRS and the Cochin Institute in Paris, told FRANCE 24. As per a study published last month in ‘Nature Communications’ journal, a 58-year-old man, who had a history of kidney disease, remained Covid positive for over six months. Also Read: Omicron: How well-prepared is India to tackle a spread of new Covid variant? "Among immunocompromised patients, the immune system will not manage to beat the virus, but it will still fight against it. That will provoke what we call selection pressure," Vincent Maréchal, professor, virology, Sorbonne University, told FRANCE 24. In the battle between immune system and virus, the latter evolves and retains only the mutations to allow it to continue to reproduce and survive. This virus, which has mutations, can be passed on if the patient infects anyone. (With inputs from agencies)

Is Covid variants' origin linked to immunocompromised people?

The new coronavirus variant, Omicron, is spreading in Australia. A cluster in Sydney has already grown to 13 cases. An infection was also suspected to have reached the state of Queensland. &nbsp;

The recent developments will test the plans of the authorities to reopen the economy. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-fears-of-new-variant-looms-europe-surpasses-75-million-covid-cases-433994" hreflang="en">As fears of new variant looms, Europe surpasses 75 million Covid cases</a>

On Friday, Australia reported its first community transmission of the new variant at a school in Sydney. As the authorities are probing the source, the number of cases is expected to rise. &nbsp;

On the hope that Omicron may be milder than previous strains, federal authorities seem to be sticking to the plan to reopen the economy. It comes as some state and territory governments are looking to tighten domestic border controls.&nbsp;

"The public health unit have ruled out that it is Delta but we haven't been able to confirm if it is Omicron. But it is being treated as if it is," state Health Minister Yvette D'Ath. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-variant-highly-transmissible-could-become-dominant-says-whos-top-scientist-433999" hreflang="en">Omicron highly transmissible, could become dominant, says WHO's top scientist</a>

Authorities in Queensland suspect its first case of Omicron to be a person, who travelled from South Africa. The genome sequencing is still being done. &nbsp;

On Saturday, authorities in South Australia said that arrivals from Victoria, New South Wales and the capital territory will be tested. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The new coronavirus variant, Omicron, is spreading in Australia. A cluster in Sydney has already grown to 13 cases. An infection was also suspected to have reached the state of Queensland.

The new coronavirus variant, Omicron, is spreading in Australia. A cluster in Sydney has already grown to 13 cases. An infection was also suspected to have reached the state of Queensland. The recent developments will test the plans of the authorities to reopen the economy. Also Read: As fears of new variant looms, Europe surpasses 75 million Covid cases On Friday, Australia reported its first community transmission of the new variant at a school in Sydney. As the authorities are probing the source, the number of cases is expected to rise. On the hope that Omicron may be milder than previous strains, federal authorities seem to be sticking to the plan to reopen the economy. It comes as some state and territory governments are looking to tighten domestic border controls. "The public health unit have ruled out that it is Delta but we haven't been able to confirm if it is Omicron. But it is being treated as if it is," state Health Minister Yvette D'Ath. Also Read: Omicron highly transmissible, could become dominant, says WHO's top scientist Authorities in Queensland suspect its first case of Omicron to be a person, who travelled from South Africa. The genome sequencing is still being done. On Saturday, authorities in South Australia said that arrivals from Victoria, New South Wales and the capital territory will be tested. (With inputs from agencies)

Omicron variant spreads in Australia as authorities look to reopen economy

Life in India was coming back to normal after experiencing a deadly second wave earlier this year. Just when everyone thought things are going to be just how they were before the Delta variant hit the nation, another variant of Covid, namely Omicron, emerged in South Africa. It rapidly spread to various parts of the world, including India.

On Thursday, the Central government reported two cases of the Omicron variant in the Southern state of Karnataka.

As fears of the new variant have engulfed the nation, there is one question that needs to be answered- Is India prepared to tackle the spread of the growing Omicron variant?

One of the most concerning things about this new variant is its transmissibility rate. While experts have been warning of its low virulence, there is a fear that it may cause more infections than any previous variant.&nbsp;

Earlier, on Friday, the World Health Organization's chief scientist, Soumya Swaminathan said that the Omicron variant could become dominant because it is highly transmissible.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-variant-highly-transmissible-could-become-dominant-says-whos-top-scientist-433999">Also read |&nbsp;Omicron variant highly transmissible, could become dominant, says WHO's top scientist</a>

"It is possible that it could become dominant variant," Swaminathan said. She further added that it is too early to predict if the Omicron variant is milder than other variants of the deadly coronavirus. "How worried should we be? We need to be prepared and cautious, not panic, because we're in a different situation to a year ago," Swaminathan said.&nbsp;

As per the scientists, the symptoms, as of now, are mild. Lav Agarwal, Joint Secretary, Union Health Ministry said, "All Omicron related cases are found to have mild symptoms so far...In all such cases in the country and across the world so far, no severe symptom has been noted. WHO has said that its emerging evidence is being studied."

Will the vaccines work against new variant? 
India, in October, achieved a new milestone of administering a billion vaccine doses. However, with the emergence of this new variant, there has come a big question mark on the vaccination status.

While ICMR DG Dr Balram Bhargava has said that at this stage it is very premature to comment on the efficacy of the vaccines, WHO Chief scientist Soumya Swaminathan has said that a new vaccine may not be needed.&nbsp;

Swaminathan in her interview with Reuters said that as of now, there is conclusive evidence about Omicron's impact on the effectiveness of antibodies.&nbsp;"It does seem to be able to overcome some of the natural immunity from previous infection."

"The fact that they're not getting sick ... that means the vaccines are still providing protection and we would hope that they would continue to provide protection," she said.

The head of India’s Covid task, Dr V K Paul has said that the vaccine manufacturers are also examining the issue of vaccine efficacy.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/omicron-in-india-dont-need-fear-says-health-ministry-as-first-2-cases-found-one-patient-fully-vaccinated-433526">Also read |&nbsp;Omicron in India: Don't need fear, says health ministry as first 2 cases found; one patient fully vaccinated</a>

Elaborating on the importance of getting vaccinated, he said that vaccination remains “the most critical tool”. 
He said that Indians are fortunate enough to have the tool in abundance.

Are there any chances of a third wave?&nbsp;

As of now, the severity of the variant is not clear. But keeping in mind the pace at which it is spreading, it is likely to move to more states in India. The scientific evidence, pertaining to the new variant, is still evolving.

(With inputs from agencies)

Life in India was coming back to normal after experiencing a deadly second wave earlier this year. Just when everyone thought things are going to be just how they were before the Delta variant hit the nation, another variant of Covid, namely Omicron, emerged in South Africa.

Life in India was coming back to normal after experiencing a deadly second wave earlier this year. Just when everyone thought things are going to be just how they were before the Delta variant hit the nation, another variant of Covid, namely Omicron, emerged in South Africa. It rapidly spread to various parts of the world, including India. On Thursday, the Central government reported two cases of the Omicron variant in the Southern state of Karnataka. As fears of the new variant have engulfed the nation, there is one question that needs to be answered- Is India prepared to tackle the spread of the growing Omicron variant? One of the most concerning things about this new variant is its transmissibility rate. While experts have been warning of its low virulence, there is a fear that it may cause more infections than any previous variant. Earlier, on Friday, the World Health Organization's chief scientist, Soumya Swaminathan said that the Omicron variant could become dominant because it is highly transmissible. Also read | Omicron variant highly transmissible, could become dominant, says WHO's top scientist "It is possible that it could become dominant variant," Swaminathan said. She further added that it is too early to predict if the Omicron variant is milder than other variants of the deadly coronavirus. "How worried should we be? We need to be prepared and cautious, not panic, because we're in a different situation to a year ago," Swaminathan said. As per the scientists, the symptoms, as of now, are mild. Lav Agarwal, Joint Secretary, Union Health Ministry said, "All Omicron related cases are found to have mild symptoms so far...In all such cases in the country and across the world so far, no severe symptom has been noted. WHO has said that its emerging evidence is being studied." Will the vaccines work against new variant? India, in October, achieved a new milestone of administering a billion vaccine doses. However, with the emergence of this new variant, there has come a big question mark on the vaccination status. While ICMR DG Dr Balram Bhargava has said that at this stage it is very premature to comment on the efficacy of the vaccines, WHO Chief scientist Soumya Swaminathan has said that a new vaccine may not be needed. Swaminathan in her interview with Reuters said that as of now, there is conclusive evidence about Omicron's impact on the effectiveness of antibodies. "It does seem to be able to overcome some of the natural immunity from previous infection." "The fact that they're not getting sick ... that means the vaccines are still providing protection and we would hope that they would continue to provide protection," she said. The head of India’s Covid task, Dr V K Paul has said that the vaccine manufacturers are also examining the issue of vaccine efficacy. Also read | Omicron in India: Don't need fear, says health ministry as first 2 cases found; one patient fully vaccinated Elaborating on the importance of getting vaccinated, he said that vaccination remains “the most critical tool”. He said that Indians are fortunate enough to have the tool in abundance. Are there any chances of a third wave? As of now, the severity of the variant is not clear. But keeping in mind the pace at which it is spreading, it is likely to move to more states in India. The scientific evidence, pertaining to the new variant, is still evolving. (With inputs from agencies)

Omicron: How well-prepared is India to tackle a possible spread of new Covid variant?

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

Even as the world is tensed over the emergence of a new Covid variant Omicron, a debate seems to have begun over its pronunciation. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The development comes as the BBC pronounced it as 'OM-mi-cron'. It gave heavy emphasis on the first syllable in pronouncing the Greek word.&nbsp;It is the 15th letter in the Greek alphabet. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-threat-who-warns-against-knee-jerk-reaction-blanket-measures-433078" hreflang="en">Omicron threat: WHO warns against knee-jerk reaction, blanket measures</a>

On Sunday, a well-known historian and classicist Mary Beard criticised the corporation's choice of emphasis on Twitter. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Beard said, “I am NOT a technical ancient linguist. But I do find it a bit odd that the BBC News is saying omicron with the stress on the first syllable." &nbsp;

In a letter, a Telegraph reader said that 'clearly' no-one at the BBC seems to have studied Greek at school. He said that the word should be pronounced 'oh-my-cron' "with the emphasis on the second syllable". &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netherlands-belgium-germany-had-omicron-cases-a-week-before-safrica-identified-the-coronavirus-variant-433005" hreflang="en">Europe had Omicron cases before South Africa even identified it</a>

In response, BBC's news channel editor Jess Brammar joked on Twitter by saying, "Guilty as charged, I did not do Greek at school.” &nbsp;

According to the language experts, it may be more accurate to pronounce Omicron as the BBC has chosen to do. &nbsp;

A scientist from Oxford and native Greek speaker, Professor Aris Katzourakis, told the Telegraph that people should try to say "oh-me-cron, with the emphasis on the o". &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Even as the world is tensed over the emergence of a new Covid variant Omicron, a debate seems to have begun over its pronunciation. The development comes as the BBC pronounced it as 'OM-mi-cron'.

Even as the world is tensed over the emergence of a new Covid variant Omicron, a debate seems to have begun over its pronunciation. The development comes as the BBC pronounced it as 'OM-mi-cron'. It gave heavy emphasis on the first syllable in pronouncing the Greek word. It is the 15th letter in the Greek alphabet. Also Read | Omicron threat: WHO warns against knee-jerk reaction, blanket measures On Sunday, a well-known historian and classicist Mary Beard criticised the corporation's choice of emphasis on Twitter. Beard said, “I am NOT a technical ancient linguist. But I do find it a bit odd that the BBC News is saying omicron with the stress on the first syllable." In a letter, a Telegraph reader said that 'clearly' no-one at the BBC seems to have studied Greek at school. He said that the word should be pronounced 'oh-my-cron' "with the emphasis on the second syllable". Also Read: Europe had Omicron cases before South Africa even identified it In response, BBC's news channel editor Jess Brammar joked on Twitter by saying, "Guilty as charged, I did not do Greek at school.” According to the language experts, it may be more accurate to pronounce Omicron as the BBC has chosen to do. A scientist from Oxford and native Greek speaker, Professor Aris Katzourakis, told the Telegraph that people should try to say "oh-me-cron, with the emphasis on the o". (With inputs from agencies)

Debate over new Covid variant Omicron’s pronunciation begins  

The Omicron variant of Covid, which was first detected in South Africa, has caused a situation of panic all across the globe. Few scientists from the UK have said that it might become a prevalent strain in the region in the upcoming days. However, the seriousness of the matter remains unclear.

The scientists have been conducting lab tests and they hope to know more in the coming weeks. As of now, the scientists have put the situation into three categories - the worst-case scenario, medium-case scenario and the best-case scenario.&nbsp;

Describing it as a 'nightmare' scenario, the scientists have explained the worst-case scenario would be if the variant turns out to be worse than the delta variant and if it is able to hamper the working of existing vaccines and several other treatments.&nbsp; 
In such a scenario, Covid will massively spread and overburden the existing healthcare system. There is also a high probability of lockdown being imposed in such a scenario.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/risk-related-to-omicron-covid-variant-is-very-high-globally-warns-who-432731">Also read |&nbsp;Risk related to Omicron Covid variant is 'very high' globally, warns WHO</a>

The second scenario, which is the middle-case scenario, in which a booster jab is expected to contain the outbreak. As per the scientists, the likeliness of a middle-case scenario is very high.&nbsp;

The third scenario, which is the nest case scenario states that the Omicron variant is way milder than other strains of Covid. A similar point was raised by a South African doctor who treated patients infected with this variant. However, all these people were very young.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the WHO warned that the newly discovered Covid-19 Omicron variant poses a "very high" risk globally.&nbsp;

"If another major surge of Covid-19 takes place driven by Omicron, consequences may be severe," WHO said. It further added, "to date, no deaths linked to Omicron variant have been reported."

WHO has designated it as a "variant of concern". According to the UN health body, a variant of concern demonstrates an "increase in transmissibility" or "detrimental change in COVID-19 epidemiology".&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Omicron variant of Covid, which was first detected in South Africa, has caused a situation of panic all across the globe. Few scientists from the UK have said that it might become a prevalent strain in the region in the upcoming days.

The Omicron variant of Covid, which was first detected in South Africa, has caused a situation of panic all across the globe. Few scientists from the UK have said that it might become a prevalent strain in the region in the upcoming days. However, the seriousness of the matter remains unclear. The scientists have been conducting lab tests and they hope to know more in the coming weeks. As of now, the scientists have put the situation into three categories - the worst-case scenario, medium-case scenario and the best-case scenario. Describing it as a 'nightmare' scenario, the scientists have explained the worst-case scenario would be if the variant turns out to be worse than the delta variant and if it is able to hamper the working of existing vaccines and several other treatments. In such a scenario, Covid will massively spread and overburden the existing healthcare system. There is also a high probability of lockdown being imposed in such a scenario. Also read | Risk related to Omicron Covid variant is 'very high' globally, warns WHO The second scenario, which is the middle-case scenario, in which a booster jab is expected to contain the outbreak. As per the scientists, the likeliness of a middle-case scenario is very high. The third scenario, which is the nest case scenario states that the Omicron variant is way milder than other strains of Covid. A similar point was raised by a South African doctor who treated patients infected with this variant. However, all these people were very young. Meanwhile, the WHO warned that the newly discovered Covid-19 Omicron variant poses a "very high" risk globally. "If another major surge of Covid-19 takes place driven by Omicron, consequences may be severe," WHO said. It further added, "to date, no deaths linked to Omicron variant have been reported." WHO has designated it as a "variant of concern". According to the UN health body, a variant of concern demonstrates an "increase in transmissibility" or "detrimental change in COVID-19 epidemiology". (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists analyse the impact on Omicron variant; here are the three scenarios

In a wrenchingly familiar cycle of tracking first cases, pointing fingers and banning travel, nations worldwide reacted Monday to the omicron variant of the coronavirus in the piecemeal fashion that has defined&nbsp;and hobbled&nbsp;the pandemic response all along.

As here-we-go-again fear and resignation gripped much of the world, the World Health Organization warned that the risk posed by the heavily mutated variant was “very high.” But operating once again in a vacuum of evidence, governments chose approaches that differed between continents, between neighbouring countries, and even between cities within those countries.

Little is known about omicron beyond its large number of mutations; it will be weeks, at least, before scientists can say with confidence whether it is more contagious&nbsp;early evidence suggests it is&nbsp;whether it causes more serious illness, and how it responds to vaccines.

In China, which had been increasingly alone in sealing itself off as it sought to eradicate the virus, a newspaper controlled by the Communist Party gloated about democracies that are now following suit as Japan, Australia and other countries gave up flirting with a return to normalcy and slammed their borders shut to the world. The West, it said, had hoarded vaccines at the expense of poorer regions, and was now paying a price for its selfishness.

In the United States, federal officials called Monday on vaccinated people to get booster shots. President Joe Biden sought to reassure Americans, saying that the new variant is “a cause for concern, not a cause for panic” and that his administration is already working with vaccine manufacturers to modify vaccines, should that prove necessary.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-variant-is-cause-for-concern-not-a-cause-for-panic-biden-432876">Also read |&nbsp;Omicron variant is 'cause for concern, not a cause for panic': Biden</a>

“We’re throwing everything we have at this virus, tracking it from every angle,” the president said in an appearance at the White House.

In southern Africa, where scientists first identified omicron amid a largely unvaccinated population, leaders deplored the travel bans as ruinous and counterproductive to tracking the virus, saying they could discourage transparency about outbreaks. African officials also noted that because of the inequity in distribution of vaccines, the continent faces this latest variant with little to no protection.

But with vaccine deliveries to Africa becoming more reliable, some states looked to a vaccine mandate to curb the spread of the coronavirus. On Sunday, Ghana’s government announced that government employees, health care workers and staff and students at most schools must be vaccinated by Jan. 22.

Europe which has acted in unusual concert in barring travel from southern Africa, is speeding up booster shots in the hope that they will work against omicron, and adjusting or reconsidering a hodgepodge of social-distancing measures, even in restriction-resistant countries such as Britain.

“The lack of a consistent and coherent global approach has resulted in a splintered and disjointed response, breeding misunderstanding, misinformation and mistrust,” said Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the World Health Organization director.

The WHO convened a three-day special session to discuss a treaty that would ensure prompt sharing of data and technology and equitable access to vaccines. The European Union has pushed for the agreement to be legally binding, but the United States has balked.

The very proposal underlined that two years into a devastating pandemic that has killed millions, devastated national economies and robbed many of the world’s children of nearly two years of formative experiences, there is still no global plan for getting out of it.

As the largely vaccinated West clings to initial reports that omicron may cause milder illness and may be susceptible to vaccines, entire swaths of Africa remain essentially unvaccinated. Some nations, like South Africa, have sufficient doses but have struggled to distribute them. Others lack the freezers, logistical infrastructure and medical personnel to inoculate their populations.

<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 |&nbsp;Fauci defends travel ban due to new variant omicron, says it is necessary and justified</a>

That has given the virus plenty of time and bodies in which to multiply and mutate.

The travel bans are intended to buy time as scientists determine whether the mutations in the new variant will allow it to dodge existing vaccines. But they also seemed to suggest that core lessons from the early phase of the pandemic must be learned again: An infection discovered somewhere is likely everywhere or may be soon enough&nbsp;and a single case detected means many more undetected.

On Monday, Portugal reported 13 omicron cases, all tied to a single soccer team and Scotland reported six, while the numbers in South Africa continued to soar.

Experts warned that the variant will reach every part of the world, if it hasn’t already.

The leaders of the world’s top powers insisted that they understood this, but their assurances also had a strong whiff of geopolitics.

President Xi Jinping of China offered 1 billion doses of COVID vaccine to Africa, on top of nearly 200 million that Beijing has already shipped to the continent, during an address to a conference in Senegal by video link.

The Global Times, a Chinese tabloid controlled by the Communist Party, boasted of China’s success in thwarting virus transmission, and said the West was now paying the price for its selfish policies. “Western countries control most of the resources needed to fight the COVID-19 pandemic,” it read. “But they have failed to curb the spread of the virus and have exposed more and more developing countries to the virus.”

Biden said the United States had sent more free vaccines abroad than all other countries in the world combined. “Now we need the rest of the world to step up as well,” he said.

European health ministers seemed to agree.

“The identification of the omicron variant in the southern part of Africa confirms the urgency to do more to vaccinate the population of the most fragile countries,” Italy’s health minister, Roberto Speranza, said at a virtual meeting of health ministers representing seven of the world’s wealthiest large democracies.

He called on those countries to help administer vaccines. “It is not enough to donate doses,” Speranza 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>

Within a few days of seeing evidence of a new variant, South African scientists, who run the continent’s most advanced genomic sequencing labs, had identified it. Last Wednesday, they made their findings public.

After other parts of the world, including the United States and the European Union, responded with travel bans on southern Africa, South African officials protested that their country was being punished for its speed and transparency.

Responses to the coronavirus have been as varied as the nations that are threatened by it.

Israel, the first nation to block travel in response to omicron, granted its intelligence service temporary permission to monitor the phone data of people with confirmed cases of the variant.

In Italy, which has kept infections low with some of the most stringent rules in Europe, the country’s conference of mayors urged the government to impose a national outdoor mask mandate from Dec. 6 until Jan. 15, as crowds gather to shop for and celebrate Christmas.

Even Britain, which has taken a lax approach to mask wearing and other social-distancing measures, has stepped up its response in the face of omicron. The country introduced new mask mandates and new travel restrictions and appeared to soften its opposition to vaccine passports and requiring masks in restaurants. And Britain’s vaccine advisory board announced Monday that it is suggesting an expansion of the country’s booster program.

In Germany, already hard hit by the latest pandemic wave, fear of the omicron variant was palpable.

“It feels different from the first bits of information we got about the delta variant,” said Christian Drosten, a prominent German virus expert, describing himself as “pretty worried.”

On Monday, the German government announced that Angela Merkel, state governors and Olaf Scholz, who is to succeed Merkel as chancellor next week, had moved up a planned meeting about potential lockdown measures by nine days.

“We need to buy time,” said Karl Lauterbach, a member of the parliament and public health expert who is considered a strong candidate to be the new German government’s health minister, said on Twitter. “Nothing is worse than a new variant into an ongoing wave.”

Pauline Londeix, a prominent French advocate for broader access to medicines and transparent drug policies, told France Inter radio Monday that variants would continue to emerge unless richer countries shared more vaccines. “We need a much more systemic approach,” she said.

The European Commission on Monday urged member states not to impose additional travel restrictions on their citizens.

In contrast to Europe’s patchwork of regulations, China has had a more consistent and plainer policy: It is essentially sealed off as it pursues a “zero COVID” strategy.

<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>

China has steadfastly kept a high wall against visitors from the rest of the world. Foreign residents and visa holders are allowed in only under limited circumstances, leading to concerns by some within the business world that COVID restrictions were leaving the country increasingly isolated.

Visitors must submit to two-week quarantines upon arrival and face potential limits on their movement after that. Movements are tracked via monitoring smartphone apps, which display color codes that can signal whether a person has traveled from or through an area with recent infections, triggering instructions to remain in one place.

In other parts of Asia, people are less focused on eradicating the virus than just surviving it.

“This news is terrifying,” said Gurinder Singh, 57, in New Delhi, who worried about his shop going under. “If this virus spreads in India, the government will shut the country again, and we will be forced to beg.”

In a wrenchingly familiar cycle of tracking first cases, pointing fingers and banning travel, nations worldwide reacted Monday to the omicron variant of the coronavirus in the piecemeal fashion that has defined and hobbled the pandemic response all along.

In a wrenchingly familiar cycle of tracking first cases, pointing fingers and banning travel, nations worldwide reacted Monday to the omicron variant of the coronavirus in the piecemeal fashion that has defined and hobbled the pandemic response all along. As here-we-go-again fear and resignation gripped much of the world, the World Health Organization warned that the risk posed by the heavily mutated variant was “very high.” But operating once again in a vacuum of evidence, governments chose approaches that differed between continents, between neighbouring countries, and even between cities within those countries. Little is known about omicron beyond its large number of mutations; it will be weeks, at least, before scientists can say with confidence whether it is more contagious early evidence suggests it is whether it causes more serious illness, and how it responds to vaccines. In China, which had been increasingly alone in sealing itself off as it sought to eradicate the virus, a newspaper controlled by the Communist Party gloated about democracies that are now following suit as Japan, Australia and other countries gave up flirting with a return to normalcy and slammed their borders shut to the world. The West, it said, had hoarded vaccines at the expense of poorer regions, and was now paying a price for its selfishness. In the United States, federal officials called Monday on vaccinated people to get booster shots. President Joe Biden sought to reassure Americans, saying that the new variant is “a cause for concern, not a cause for panic” and that his administration is already working with vaccine manufacturers to modify vaccines, should that prove necessary. Also read | Omicron variant is 'cause for concern, not a cause for panic': Biden “We’re throwing everything we have at this virus, tracking it from every angle,” the president said in an appearance at the White House. In southern Africa, where scientists first identified omicron amid a largely unvaccinated population, leaders deplored the travel bans as ruinous and counterproductive to tracking the virus, saying they could discourage transparency about outbreaks. African officials also noted that because of the inequity in distribution of vaccines, the continent faces this latest variant with little to no protection. But with vaccine deliveries to Africa becoming more reliable, some states looked to a vaccine mandate to curb the spread of the coronavirus. On Sunday, Ghana’s government announced that government employees, health care workers and staff and students at most schools must be vaccinated by Jan. 22. Europe which has acted in unusual concert in barring travel from southern Africa, is speeding up booster shots in the hope that they will work against omicron, and adjusting or reconsidering a hodgepodge of social-distancing measures, even in restriction-resistant countries such as Britain. “The lack of a consistent and coherent global approach has resulted in a splintered and disjointed response, breeding misunderstanding, misinformation and mistrust,” said Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the World Health Organization director. The WHO convened a three-day special session to discuss a treaty that would ensure prompt sharing of data and technology and equitable access to vaccines. The European Union has pushed for the agreement to be legally binding, but the United States has balked. The very proposal underlined that two years into a devastating pandemic that has killed millions, devastated national economies and robbed many of the world’s children of nearly two years of formative experiences, there is still no global plan for getting out of it. As the largely vaccinated West clings to initial reports that omicron may cause milder illness and may be susceptible to vaccines, entire swaths of Africa remain essentially unvaccinated. Some nations, like South Africa, have sufficient doses but have struggled to distribute them. Others lack the freezers, logistical infrastructure and medical personnel to inoculate their populations. Also read | Fauci defends travel ban due to new variant omicron, says it is necessary and justified That has given the virus plenty of time and bodies in which to multiply and mutate. The travel bans are intended to buy time as scientists determine whether the mutations in the new variant will allow it to dodge existing vaccines. But they also seemed to suggest that core lessons from the early phase of the pandemic must be learned again: An infection discovered somewhere is likely everywhere or may be soon enough and a single case detected means many more undetected. On Monday, Portugal reported 13 omicron cases, all tied to a single soccer team and Scotland reported six, while the numbers in South Africa continued to soar. Experts warned that the variant will reach every part of the world, if it hasn’t already. The leaders of the world’s top powers insisted that they understood this, but their assurances also had a strong whiff of geopolitics. President Xi Jinping of China offered 1 billion doses of COVID vaccine to Africa, on top of nearly 200 million that Beijing has already shipped to the continent, during an address to a conference in Senegal by video link. The Global Times, a Chinese tabloid controlled by the Communist Party, boasted of China’s success in thwarting virus transmission, and said the West was now paying the price for its selfish policies. “Western countries control most of the resources needed to fight the COVID-19 pandemic,” it read. “But they have failed to curb the spread of the virus and have exposed more and more developing countries to the virus.” Biden said the United States had sent more free vaccines abroad than all other countries in the world combined. “Now we need the rest of the world to step up as well,” he said. European health ministers seemed to agree. “The identification of the omicron variant in the southern part of Africa confirms the urgency to do more to vaccinate the population of the most fragile countries,” Italy’s health minister, Roberto Speranza, said at a virtual meeting of health ministers representing seven of the world’s wealthiest large democracies. He called on those countries to help administer vaccines. “It is not enough to donate doses,” Speranza said. Also read | US praises South Africa for quick, transparent reporting of new Covid variant Omicron Within a few days of seeing evidence of a new variant, South African scientists, who run the continent’s most advanced genomic sequencing labs, had identified it. Last Wednesday, they made their findings public. After other parts of the world, including the United States and the European Union, responded with travel bans on southern Africa, South African officials protested that their country was being punished for its speed and transparency. Responses to the coronavirus have been as varied as the nations that are threatened by it. Israel, the first nation to block travel in response to omicron, granted its intelligence service temporary permission to monitor the phone data of people with confirmed cases of the variant. In Italy, which has kept infections low with some of the most stringent rules in Europe, the country’s conference of mayors urged the government to impose a national outdoor mask mandate from Dec. 6 until Jan. 15, as crowds gather to shop for and celebrate Christmas. Even Britain, which has taken a lax approach to mask wearing and other social-distancing measures, has stepped up its response in the face of omicron. The country introduced new mask mandates and new travel restrictions and appeared to soften its opposition to vaccine passports and requiring masks in restaurants. And Britain’s vaccine advisory board announced Monday that it is suggesting an expansion of the country’s booster program. In Germany, already hard hit by the latest pandemic wave, fear of the omicron variant was palpable. “It feels different from the first bits of information we got about the delta variant,” said Christian Drosten, a prominent German virus expert, describing himself as “pretty worried.” On Monday, the German government announced that Angela Merkel, state governors and Olaf Scholz, who is to succeed Merkel as chancellor next week, had moved up a planned meeting about potential lockdown measures by nine days. “We need to buy time,” said Karl Lauterbach, a member of the parliament and public health expert who is considered a strong candidate to be the new German government’s health minister, said on Twitter. “Nothing is worse than a new variant into an ongoing wave.” Pauline Londeix, a prominent French advocate for broader access to medicines and transparent drug policies, told France Inter radio Monday that variants would continue to emerge unless richer countries shared more vaccines. “We need a much more systemic approach,” she said. The European Commission on Monday urged member states not to impose additional travel restrictions on their citizens. In contrast to Europe’s patchwork of regulations, China has had a more consistent and plainer policy: It is essentially sealed off as it pursues a “zero COVID” strategy. Also read | Omicron variant in Australia: Two passengers from South Africa test positive for new COVID strain China has steadfastly kept a high wall against visitors from the rest of the world. Foreign residents and visa holders are allowed in only under limited circumstances, leading to concerns by some within the business world that COVID restrictions were leaving the country increasingly isolated. Visitors must submit to two-week quarantines upon arrival and face potential limits on their movement after that. Movements are tracked via monitoring smartphone apps, which display color codes that can signal whether a person has traveled from or through an area with recent infections, triggering instructions to remain in one place. In other parts of Asia, people are less focused on eradicating the virus than just surviving it. “This news is terrifying,” said Gurinder Singh, 57, in New Delhi, who worried about his shop going under. “If this virus spreads in India, the government will shut the country again, and we will be forced to beg.”

Fragmented reactions hinder global fight against Omicron variant

The World Health Organization on Monday warned that the newly discovered Covid-19 Omicron variant poses a "very high" risk globally. "If another major surge of Covid-19 takes place driven by Omicron, consequences may be severe," WHO said.

The World Health Organization on Monday warned that the newly discovered Covid-19 Omicron variant poses a "very high" risk globally. "If another major surge of Covid-19 takes place driven by Omicron, consequences may be severe," WHO said. It further added, "to date, no deaths linked to Omicron variant have been reported." While the world was already struggling to battle against the deadly coronavirus, the Omicron variant has added on to the misery. WHO has designated it as a "variant of concern". According to the UN health body, a variant of concern demonstrates an "increase in transmissibility" or "detrimental change in COVID-19 epidemiology". Also read | Those who had COVID-19 may be reinfected more easily with Omicron: WHO The WHO had earlier classified Alpha, Beta, Gamma and Delta as variants of concern. Global authorities reacted with panic to the new variant detected in South Africa, with several imposing travel curbs and tightening border controls. Early research on the Omicron variation shows that there may be an increased risk of reinfection with this variant, meaning that those who have previously been infected with the deadly coronavirus 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, WHO is collaborating with technical partners to determine the impact of this variation on current countermeasures, such as vaccinations. (With inputs from agencies)

Risk related to Omicron Covid variant is 'very high' globally, warns WHO

European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen on Sunday, said that the world was in "race against time", to understand the new Covid variant. She hinted that if situation required, vaccines would need to be modified to counter the threat of Omicron variant.

"We know we are now in a race against time," von der Leyen said. She was on a visit to Riga, Latvia. She called for the public to take precautions in order to give scientists time to understand the new variant.

"The scientists and manufacturers need two to three weeks to have a full picture about the quality of the mutations of this Omicron variant," she said.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/omicron-variant-is-causing-mild-disease-says-south-african-medical-association-432552">Omicron variant is causing mild disease, says South African Medical Association&nbsp;</a>

"We need to buy time," she added, urging people to vaccinate, wear masks and practise social distancing.

She said that a contract struck in the summer by the European Commission with BioNTech-Pfizer for 1.8 billion vaccine doses included a clause in case of an "escape variant" -- a strain that can evade vaccine immunity.

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>

A clause in the contract states "that if a variant turns into an escape variant... BioNTech-Pfizer is able to adapt its vaccine within 100 days," she said.

The new, heavily mutated Covid-19 variant has spread across the globe, shutting borders, renewing curbs and sparking fears for the fight against the nearly two-year-old coronavirus pandemic.

(With inputs from agencies)

European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen on Sunday, said that the world was in "race against time", to understand the new Covid variant. She hinted that if situation required, vaccines would need to be modified to counter the threat of Omicron variant.

European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen on Sunday, said that the world was in "race against time", to understand the new Covid variant. She hinted that if situation required, vaccines would need to be modified to counter the threat of Omicron variant. "We know we are now in a race against time," von der Leyen said. She was on a visit to Riga, Latvia. She called for the public to take precautions in order to give scientists time to understand the new variant. "The scientists and manufacturers need two to three weeks to have a full picture about the quality of the mutations of this Omicron variant," she said. Also Read | Omicron variant is causing mild disease, says South African Medical Association "We need to buy time," she added, urging people to vaccinate, wear masks and practise social distancing. She said that a contract struck in the summer by the European Commission with BioNTech-Pfizer for 1.8 billion vaccine doses included a clause in case of an "escape variant" -- a strain that can evade vaccine immunity. Also Read | US praises South Africa for quick, transparent reporting of new Covid variant Omicron A clause in the contract states "that if a variant turns into an escape variant... BioNTech-Pfizer is able to adapt its vaccine within 100 days," she said. The new, heavily mutated Covid-19 variant has spread across the globe, shutting borders, renewing curbs and sparking fears for the fight against the nearly two-year-old coronavirus pandemic. (With inputs from agencies)

World in 'race against time' to tackle Omicron Covid variant, says EU chief

Global authorities are taking precautions for curbing the spread of a new coronavirus variant, Omicron, detected in South Africa. Many countries have imposed a travel ban on South Africa and other Southern African countries.

Being the first country to shut all its borders, Israel has said that it would ban the entry of all foreigners into the country. It further mentioned that the nation will be using counter-terrorism phone-tracking technology to contain the spread of the Omicron variant.

"Our working hypotheses are that the variant is already in nearly every country," Interior Minister Ayelet Shaked said. He further added, "and that the vaccine is effective, although we don't yet know to what degree."

In a statement, Prime Minister Naftali Bennett said that the ban, pending government approval, would last 14 days.&nbsp; 
Officials have been hoping that within the same period there will be more information on how effective the vaccines are against Omicron.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-a-precautionary-measure-us-to-restrict-travel-over-fears-of-new-covid-19-variant-432251">Also read As a 'precautionary measure', US to restrict travel over fears of new COVID-19 variant&nbsp;</a>

Israel, as of now, has reported one case of the new Covid-19 variant. The health ministry said, "The variant discovered in southern African states has been identified in Israel." &nbsp;

It was recorded "in a person who returned from Malawi," with "two more cases of people returning from abroad" having been placed in quarantine.

The WHO has designated Omicron as a "variant of concern". The WHO has clearly defined what a variant of concern (VOC) means. According to the UN health body, a variant of concern demonstrates an "increase in transmissibility" or "detrimental change in COVID-19 epidemiology".&nbsp;

The new COVID-19 variant dubbed Omicron has created panic as countries have banned flights from South Africa.

Apart from South Africa and Israel, the new variant was also discovered in Botswana and Hong Kong. Europe also recorded the first case of the new Omicron variant in Belgium after a traveller from Egypt was detected with the new strain. 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Global authorities are taking precautions for curbing the spread of a new coronavirus variant, Omicron, detected in South Africa. Many countries have imposed a travel ban on South Africa and other Southern African countries.

Global authorities are taking precautions for curbing the spread of a new coronavirus variant, Omicron, detected in South Africa. Many countries have imposed a travel ban on South Africa and other Southern African countries. Being the first country to shut all its borders, Israel has said that it would ban the entry of all foreigners into the country. It further mentioned that the nation will be using counter-terrorism phone-tracking technology to contain the spread of the Omicron variant. "Our working hypotheses are that the variant is already in nearly every country," Interior Minister Ayelet Shaked said. He further added, "and that the vaccine is effective, although we don't yet know to what degree." In a statement, Prime Minister Naftali Bennett said that the ban, pending government approval, would last 14 days. Officials have been hoping that within the same period there will be more information on how effective the vaccines are against Omicron. Also read As a 'precautionary measure', US to restrict travel over fears of new COVID-19 variant Israel, as of now, has reported one case of the new Covid-19 variant. The health ministry said, "The variant discovered in southern African states has been identified in Israel." It was recorded "in a person who returned from Malawi," with "two more cases of people returning from abroad" having been placed in quarantine. The WHO has designated Omicron as a "variant of concern". The WHO has clearly defined what a variant of concern (VOC) means. According to the UN health body, a variant of concern demonstrates an "increase in transmissibility" or "detrimental change in COVID-19 epidemiology". The new COVID-19 variant dubbed Omicron has created panic as countries have banned flights from South Africa. Apart from South Africa and Israel, the new variant was also discovered in Botswana and Hong Kong. Europe also recorded the first case of the new Omicron variant in Belgium after a traveller from Egypt was detected with the new strain. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel becomes the first country to shut all borders over fear of new 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

With the emergence of a new Covid variant named as Omicron, which was first detected in southern Africa, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is chairing an important meeting to assess the situation of the pandemic and the vaccination drive in the country. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In the meeting, the PM and top officials will discuss about the way ahead, said government sources on Saturday. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-warns-against-travel-curbs-due-to-new-variant-says-closely-monitoring-432286">WHO warns against travel curbs due to new variant, says 'closely monitoring'</a>

The move comes as the world has been taking several kinds of steps to contain the spread of the new variant, which has already been found in Israel and some countries of Europe. &nbsp;

The new strain of the coronavirus has been classified as a highly transmissible virus of concern by the World Health Organization (WHO). &nbsp;

Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister, P K Mishra, Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba, Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan and NITI Aayog member (health) Dr V K Paul among others will be present at the meeting. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-a-precautionary-measure-us-to-restrict-travel-over-fears-of-new-covid-19-variant-432251" hreflang="en">As a 'precautionary measure', US to restrict travel over fears of new variant</a>

Several countries have already imposed travel curbs and tightened border controls. &nbsp;&nbsp;

According to Union Health Ministry data updated on Saturday, India has witnessed a single-day rise of 8,318 new coronavirus infections. It has taken the country's total tally of Covid cases to 3,45,63,749. The active cases have declined to 1,07,019, the lowest in 541 days. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

With the emergence of a new Covid variant named as Omicron, which was first detected in southern Africa, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is chairing an important meeting to assess the situation of the pandemic and the vaccination drive in the country.

With the emergence of a new Covid variant named as Omicron, which was first detected in southern Africa, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is chairing an important meeting to assess the situation of the pandemic and the vaccination drive in the country. In the meeting, the PM and top officials will discuss about the way ahead, said government sources on Saturday. Also Read: WHO warns against travel curbs due to new variant, says 'closely monitoring' The move comes as the world has been taking several kinds of steps to contain the spread of the new variant, which has already been found in Israel and some countries of Europe. The new strain of the coronavirus has been classified as a highly transmissible virus of concern by the World Health Organization (WHO). Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister, P K Mishra, Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba, Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan and NITI Aayog member (health) Dr V K Paul among others will be present at the meeting. Also Read: As a 'precautionary measure', US to restrict travel over fears of new variant Several countries have already imposed travel curbs and tightened border controls. According to Union Health Ministry data updated on Saturday, India has witnessed a single-day rise of 8,318 new coronavirus infections. It has taken the country's total tally of Covid cases to 3,45,63,749. The active cases have declined to 1,07,019, the lowest in 541 days. (With inputs from agencies)

As new Covid variant emerges, Indian PM Modi chairs vital meeting to assess situation

The World Health Organization (WHO) has cautioned 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."

As a new variant of Covid-19 has emerged, global authorities are taking precautions for curbing its spread with several imposing travel curbs.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-a-precautionary-measure-us-to-restrict-travel-over-fears-of-new-covid-19-variant-432251">Also read |&nbsp;As a 'precautionary measure', US to restrict travel over fears of new COVID-19 variant</a>

Various countries, including the US, UK, Italy, Israel, Canada, have banned travellers from southern Africa over the variant fears.

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.”

Meanwhile, WHO classified the new coronavirus strain detected in South Africa as a "variant of concern," naming it as Omicron.&nbsp;

"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.

(With inputs from agencies)

The World Health Organization (WHO) has cautioned 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.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has cautioned 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." As a new variant of Covid-19 has emerged, global authorities are taking precautions for curbing its spread with several imposing travel curbs. Also read | As a 'precautionary measure', US to restrict travel over fears of new COVID-19 variant Various countries, including the US, UK, Italy, Israel, Canada, have banned travellers from southern Africa over the variant fears. 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.” Meanwhile, WHO classified the new coronavirus strain detected in South Africa as a "variant of concern," naming it as Omicron. "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. (With inputs from agencies)

WHO warns against travel curbs due to new variant, says 'closely monitoring'

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

The world reacted with alarm Friday to the highly mutated new coronavirus variant discovered in southern Africa, as the United States, the European Union and nations across the globe imposed new travel restrictions, financial markets swooned, and visions of finally emerging from the pandemic started to dim.

Just two days after the world learned of the variant, the World Health Organization officially labeled it a “variant of concern,” its most serious category — the first since the delta variant, which emerged a year ago. The designation means that the variant has mutations that might make it more contagious or more virulent, or make vaccines and other preventive measures less effective — although none of those effects has yet been established.

After an emergency meeting, the WHO warned in a statement that “preliminary evidence suggests an increased risk of reinfection with this variant” in people who have already had COVID-19. In keeping with the practice of naming variants for letters of the Greek alphabet, it dubbed the new one omicron.

The WHO and scientists on multiple continents cautioned that very little is known about the omicron variant or about whether the dangers it poses will justify the fears it is stoking. South African scientists announced its existence Wednesday, and the number of cases definitively identified, all of them within the past three weeks, is still small, under 100.

But the swift global responses demonstrated that after nearly two years of facing accusations that they were too slow and timid in tackling the pandemic, many policymakers would rather risk overreacting to a new threat than underreacting.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/using-desperate-migrants-as-pawns-lukashenko-faces-sanctions-threat-pitches-for-russian-missiles-429281">Also read |&nbsp;'Using desperate migrants as pawns': Lukashenko faces sanctions threat, pitches for Russian missiles</a>

“We are following the path of maximum caution,” said Roberto Speranza, the health minister of Italy, which suffered terribly when COVID first hit Europe early last year.

On Friday, Israel, Singapore, several European nations individually, and then the European Union as a whole, the United States and Canada followed the lead set by Britain Thursday night, temporarily barring foreign travelers who have recently been in South Africa or any of several neighboring countries. As with past travel bans, countries are allowing their own citizens and permanent residents to return home if they test negative for the virus, with some requiring additional testing and quarantine after arrival.

After a briefing by his top advisers on the pandemic, including Dr. Anthony Fauci, President Joe Biden made the decision to bar travelers from South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Lesotho, Eswatini, Mozambique and Malawi starting Monday.

“I’ve decided that we’re going to be cautious,” Biden told reporters in Nantucket, Massachusetts, where he spent Thanksgiving with his family. “We don’t know a lot about the variant except that it is a great concern and seems to spread rapidly.”

Officials warned that even with quickly enacted travel restrictions, omicron, like past variants, is certain to spread and reach the United States, although the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said in a statement Friday night that no cases had been identified as yet.

“It’s going to buy us some time,” Fauci said in an interview. “It’s not going to be possible to keep this infection out of the country. The question is: Can you slow it down?”

“You don’t want to say don’t worry, and you don’t want to say you’ve got to worry yourself sick, because we’re gathering information rapidly,” Fauci said, adding, “Even though the numbers are still small, the doubling time is pretty rapid and the slope of the increase is really rather sharp.”

The administration is already in talks with vaccine makers about the possibility that they may have to reformulate the shots to respond to the variant, according to another administration official, speaking on condition of anonymity to describe private conversations. But first, scientists would need to determine that existing vaccines really are less effective against omicron, a process that is expected to take weeks, if not longer.

Stock indexes and oil prices tumbled around the world, as news of the variant and travel restrictions — coming in the economically vital holiday season — raised fears of yet more financial damage caused by the pandemic. On Friday, the S&amp;P 500 index logged its worst day since February, falling 2.3%, and European stock markets fell 3% to 5%. Benchmark oil futures fell 13% in the United States and 11% in Europe.

Scientists have identified about 50 mutations in the genome of the omicron variant that set it apart from other variants, far more than in any previous variant, including more than 30 on the spike protein that the virus uses to bind to host cells.

Changes in the spike protein are particularly worrisome because immune system antibodies that fight the virus — whether they are induced by infection or by vaccination — primarily recognise and target the spike.

But a leading Italian virus expert, Roberto Burioni, said people should not panic, writing on Twitter, “Substantively NOTHING is known about the new variant.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-fake-news-on-facebook-helped-fuel-a-border-crisis-in-europe-432158">Also read |&nbsp;How fake news on Facebook helped fuel a border crisis in Europe</a>

In addition to South Africa, the variant has been found in a handful of people in Botswana, Belgium, Israel and Hong Kong, but experience with previous variants suggests that when the first cases are identified, it is likely more have gone undetected.

“This variant has been detected at faster rates than previous surges in infection, suggesting that this variant may have a growth advantage,” the WHO said.

In South Africa, officials and business owners reacted bitterly to the international response. The nation put its sophisticated disease surveillance and research systems to good use, and quickly shared the results with the world, only to have its transparency repaid with damaging travel bans.

“Perhaps our scientists’ ability to trace some of these variants has been our biggest weakness,” said Lindiwe Sisulu, the tourism minister. “We’re finding ourselves punished for the work that we do.”

“We had been on the British red list, and we worked our way out of it, and with no notification we find ourselves back on the red list,” she told a national television station.

Health officials in Africa suggested that increased screening at points of entry, or even longer quarantine periods, would have been a better alternative.

“This will just discourage different countries for sharing information which might be very important for global public health,” said Thierno Balde, the WHO’s incident manager for COVID response in Africa.

The response to the omicron variant was especially quick and sharp in Europe, once again the epicentre of the global pandemic, where fights over vaccines and social restrictions have grown increasingly harsh.

Reported coronavirus cases have soared in Europe from about 700,000 a week in early September to 2.6 million a week. The surge began in the less-vaccinated countries of Eastern Europe, but then spread to highly vaccinated nations to the west that had thought they would not be vulnerable and were caught off guard.

The countries that currently have the world’s highest case rates for their populations are all European — several of them about six times as high as the US&nbsp;rate.

South Africa, whose last coronavirus wave peaked in July, has recently reported case rates far below the worldwide average. But last week the rate more than doubled from the week before.

The world reacted with alarm Friday to the highly mutated new coronavirus variant discovered in southern Africa, as the United States, the European Union and nations across the globe imposed new travel restrictions, financial markets swooned, and visions of finally emerging from the pandemic started to dim.

The world reacted with alarm Friday to the highly mutated new coronavirus variant discovered in southern Africa, as the United States, the European Union and nations across the globe imposed new travel restrictions, financial markets swooned, and visions of finally emerging from the pandemic started to dim. Just two days after the world learned of the variant, the World Health Organization officially labeled it a “variant of concern,” its most serious category — the first since the delta variant, which emerged a year ago. The designation means that the variant has mutations that might make it more contagious or more virulent, or make vaccines and other preventive measures less effective — although none of those effects has yet been established. After an emergency meeting, the WHO warned in a statement that “preliminary evidence suggests an increased risk of reinfection with this variant” in people who have already had COVID-19. In keeping with the practice of naming variants for letters of the Greek alphabet, it dubbed the new one omicron. The WHO and scientists on multiple continents cautioned that very little is known about the omicron variant or about whether the dangers it poses will justify the fears it is stoking. South African scientists announced its existence Wednesday, and the number of cases definitively identified, all of them within the past three weeks, is still small, under 100. But the swift global responses demonstrated that after nearly two years of facing accusations that they were too slow and timid in tackling the pandemic, many policymakers would rather risk overreacting to a new threat than underreacting. Also read | 'Using desperate migrants as pawns': Lukashenko faces sanctions threat, pitches for Russian missiles “We are following the path of maximum caution,” said Roberto Speranza, the health minister of Italy, which suffered terribly when COVID first hit Europe early last year. On Friday, Israel, Singapore, several European nations individually, and then the European Union as a whole, the United States and Canada followed the lead set by Britain Thursday night, temporarily barring foreign travelers who have recently been in South Africa or any of several neighboring countries. As with past travel bans, countries are allowing their own citizens and permanent residents to return home if they test negative for the virus, with some requiring additional testing and quarantine after arrival. After a briefing by his top advisers on the pandemic, including Dr. Anthony Fauci, President Joe Biden made the decision to bar travelers from South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Lesotho, Eswatini, Mozambique and Malawi starting Monday. “I’ve decided that we’re going to be cautious,” Biden told reporters in Nantucket, Massachusetts, where he spent Thanksgiving with his family. “We don’t know a lot about the variant except that it is a great concern and seems to spread rapidly.” Officials warned that even with quickly enacted travel restrictions, omicron, like past variants, is certain to spread and reach the United States, although the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said in a statement Friday night that no cases had been identified as yet. “It’s going to buy us some time,” Fauci said in an interview. “It’s not going to be possible to keep this infection out of the country. The question is: Can you slow it down?” “You don’t want to say don’t worry, and you don’t want to say you’ve got to worry yourself sick, because we’re gathering information rapidly,” Fauci said, adding, “Even though the numbers are still small, the doubling time is pretty rapid and the slope of the increase is really rather sharp.” The administration is already in talks with vaccine makers about the possibility that they may have to reformulate the shots to respond to the variant, according to another administration official, speaking on condition of anonymity to describe private conversations. But first, scientists would need to determine that existing vaccines really are less effective against omicron, a process that is expected to take weeks, if not longer. Stock indexes and oil prices tumbled around the world, as news of the variant and travel restrictions — coming in the economically vital holiday season — raised fears of yet more financial damage caused by the pandemic. On Friday, the S&P 500 index logged its worst day since February, falling 2.3%, and European stock markets fell 3% to 5%. Benchmark oil futures fell 13% in the United States and 11% in Europe. Scientists have identified about 50 mutations in the genome of the omicron variant that set it apart from other variants, far more than in any previous variant, including more than 30 on the spike protein that the virus uses to bind to host cells. Changes in the spike protein are particularly worrisome because immune system antibodies that fight the virus — whether they are induced by infection or by vaccination — primarily recognise and target the spike. But a leading Italian virus expert, Roberto Burioni, said people should not panic, writing on Twitter, “Substantively NOTHING is known about the new variant.” Also read | How fake news on Facebook helped fuel a border crisis in Europe In addition to South Africa, the variant has been found in a handful of people in Botswana, Belgium, Israel and Hong Kong, but experience with previous variants suggests that when the first cases are identified, it is likely more have gone undetected. “This variant has been detected at faster rates than previous surges in infection, suggesting that this variant may have a growth advantage,” the WHO said. In South Africa, officials and business owners reacted bitterly to the international response. The nation put its sophisticated disease surveillance and research systems to good use, and quickly shared the results with the world, only to have its transparency repaid with damaging travel bans. “Perhaps our scientists’ ability to trace some of these variants has been our biggest weakness,” said Lindiwe Sisulu, the tourism minister. “We’re finding ourselves punished for the work that we do.” “We had been on the British red list, and we worked our way out of it, and with no notification we find ourselves back on the red list,” she told a national television station. Health officials in Africa suggested that increased screening at points of entry, or even longer quarantine periods, would have been a better alternative. “This will just discourage different countries for sharing information which might be very important for global public health,” said Thierno Balde, the WHO’s incident manager for COVID response in Africa. The response to the omicron variant was especially quick and sharp in Europe, once again the epicentre of the global pandemic, where fights over vaccines and social restrictions have grown increasingly harsh. Reported coronavirus cases have soared in Europe from about 700,000 a week in early September to 2.6 million a week. The surge began in the less-vaccinated countries of Eastern Europe, but then spread to highly vaccinated nations to the west that had thought they would not be vulnerable and were caught off guard. The countries that currently have the world’s highest case rates for their populations are all European — several of them about six times as high as the US rate. South Africa, whose last coronavirus wave peaked in July, has recently reported case rates far below the worldwide average. But last week the rate more than doubled from the week before.

New ‘variant of concern’ fuels global fear of another virus surge

As the world grapples with the emergence of new Covid variant, Israel has identified its case, the health ministry said on Friday.

The&nbsp;new variant, which has a large number of mutations, was first detected in South Africa. The health ministry said, "The variant discovered in southern African states has been identified in Israel." &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-new-variant-emerges-india-to-tighten-covid-testing-for-international-tourists-432018" hreflang="en">As new variant emerges, India to tighten Covid testing for international tourists &nbsp;&nbsp;</a>

It was recorded "in a person who returned from Malawi," with "two more cases of people returning from abroad" have been placed in quarantine. &nbsp;

This comes as the scientists said they had detected a new Covid variant with a large number of mutations in South Africa. They have blamed it for a surge in infection numbers. &nbsp;

UK on Thursday banned flights from six African countries where the variant with multiple mutations was found, and the WHO is holding a meeting on Friday to decide whether to call B.1.1.529 a 'variant of concern'. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/highly-mutated-new-covid-variant-uk-bans-6-african-nations-flights-who-calls-special-meeting-432019" hreflang="en">New Covid variant: UK bans 6 African nations' flights, WHO calls special meet</a>

The World Health Organization is holding the special meeting to discuss the variant that has an unusually high number of mutations to its spike protein, up to 10 by some accounts. &nbsp;

The WHO meeting on Friday will discuss the impact of the new variant on the ongoing vaccines and treatments. &nbsp;

After the variant was detected in South Africa, the UK has suspended flights from six African countries: South Africa, Namibia, Lesotho, Eswatini, Zimbabwe and Botswana. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

As the world grapples with the emergence of new Covid variant, Israel has identified its case, the health ministry said on Friday. The new variant, which has a large number of mutations, was first detected in South Africa.

As the world grapples with the emergence of new Covid variant, Israel has identified its case, the health ministry said on Friday. The new variant, which has a large number of mutations, was first detected in South Africa. The health ministry said, "The variant discovered in southern African states has been identified in Israel." Also Read: As new variant emerges, India to tighten Covid testing for international tourists It was recorded "in a person who returned from Malawi," with "two more cases of people returning from abroad" have been placed in quarantine. This comes as the scientists said they had detected a new Covid variant with a large number of mutations in South Africa. They have blamed it for a surge in infection numbers. UK on Thursday banned flights from six African countries where the variant with multiple mutations was found, and the WHO is holding a meeting on Friday to decide whether to call B.1.1.529 a 'variant of concern'. Also Read: New Covid variant: UK bans 6 African nations' flights, WHO calls special meet The World Health Organization is holding the special meeting to discuss the variant that has an unusually high number of mutations to its spike protein, up to 10 by some accounts. The WHO meeting on Friday will discuss the impact of the new variant on the ongoing vaccines and treatments. After the variant was detected in South Africa, the UK has suspended flights from six African countries: South Africa, Namibia, Lesotho, Eswatini, Zimbabwe and Botswana. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel identifies new Covid variant case first detected in South Africa  

With the emergence of new coronavirus variant on mind, Indian government has issued an advisory to all states to rigorously test and screen international travellers from South Africa and other "at risk" countries. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The travel restrictions were eased earlier this month. According to the WHO, the variant, which is called B.1.1.529, has been detected in South Africa in small numbers. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-coronavirus-variant-having-large-number-of-mutations-detected-in-south-africa-431892" hreflang="en">New coronavirus variant, having large number of mutations, detected in South Africa</a>

The reports of mutations in the new variant, which has been identified as B.1.1.529 had "serious public health implications", said the federal health ministry. &nbsp;

In a letter to states on Thursday, health secretary Rajesh Bhushan said, "This variant is reported to have a significantly high number of mutations, and thus, has serious public health implications for the country in view of recently relaxed visa restrictions and opening up of international travel." &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-medical-agency-gives-go-ahead-to-biontech-pfizer-vaccine-for-5-11-age-group-431940" hreflang="en">EU medical agency gives go ahead to BioNTech-Pfizer vaccine for 5-11 age group</a>

According to the Union Health Ministry data on Friday,&nbsp;India has registered 10,549 new coronavirus infections. It has&nbsp;taken the country's total tally of Covid cases to 3,45,55,431. The active cases in the country rose to 1,10,133.&nbsp;

"In view of the threat from new COVID-19 variant from African countries, we have requested experts to make a presentation to DDMA on Monday and suggest what steps we should take. We will take all steps necessary to protect you and your family," Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said.

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In view of the threat from new COVID variant from African countries, we have requested experts to make a presentation to DDMA on Mon and suggest what steps we shud take. We will take all steps necessary to protect u and ur family
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The death toll has also climbed to 4,67,468 with 488 fresh fatalities, including 384 in Kerala.&nbsp;&nbsp;

For 49 straight days,&nbsp;the daily rise in new coronavirus infections has been below 20,000.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

With the emergence of new coronavirus variant on mind, Indian government has issued an advisory to all states to rigorously test and screen international travellers from South Africa and other "at risk" countries.

With the emergence of new coronavirus variant on mind, Indian government has issued an advisory to all states to rigorously test and screen international travellers from South Africa and other "at risk" countries. The travel restrictions were eased earlier this month. According to the WHO, the variant, which is called B.1.1.529, has been detected in South Africa in small numbers. Also Read: New coronavirus variant, having large number of mutations, detected in South Africa The reports of mutations in the new variant, which has been identified as B.1.1.529 had "serious public health implications", said the federal health ministry. In a letter to states on Thursday, health secretary Rajesh Bhushan said, "This variant is reported to have a significantly high number of mutations, and thus, has serious public health implications for the country in view of recently relaxed visa restrictions and opening up of international travel." Also Read: EU medical agency gives go ahead to BioNTech-Pfizer vaccine for 5-11 age group According to the Union Health Ministry data on Friday, India has registered 10,549 new coronavirus infections. It has taken the country's total tally of Covid cases to 3,45,55,431. The active cases in the country rose to 1,10,133. "In view of the threat from new COVID-19 variant from African countries, we have requested experts to make a presentation to DDMA on Monday and suggest what steps we should take. We will take all steps necessary to protect you and your family," Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said. In view of the threat from new COVID variant from African countries, we have requested experts to make a presentation to DDMA on Mon and suggest what steps we shud take. We will take all steps necessary to protect u and ur family — Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) November 26, 2021 × The death toll has also climbed to 4,67,468 with 488 fresh fatalities, including 384 in Kerala. For 49 straight days, the daily rise in new coronavirus infections has been below 20,000. (With inputs from agencies)

As new variant emerges, India to tighten Covid testing for international tourists   

While the world is already struggling to get rid of the existing Delta variant of Covid, reports suggest that another variant has emerged and it could carry an “extremely high number” of mutations which could lead to further waves of the disease.&nbsp;

The B.1.1.529 variant which has 32 spike mutations in the spike protein has 10 cases in three countries. This has been confirmed by genomic sequencing. The new strain would be named 'Nu.'

The variant emerged in Botswana.&nbsp;In the region, three cases have been sequenced. Another six cases have been confirmed in South Africa, and one in Hong Kong.&nbsp;

Dr Tom Peacock, a virologist at Imperial College, deemed the combination of mutations found in the Botswana variant as "horrific".

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He further said that the variant could be 'worse than nearly anything else about', including the highly transmissible Delta strain.&nbsp; 
Taking to his Twitter, he wrote, "Worth emphasising this is at super low numbers right now in a region of Africa that is fairly well sampled, however it very very much should be monitored due to that horrific spike profile."

Prof Francois Balloux, the director of the UCL Genetics Institute, said a large number of mutations in the variant accumulated in a “single burst." He further suggested that it may have evolved during chronic infection in a person with a weakened immune system. The person could possibly be an untreated HIV/Aids patient.

Currently, there are no cases of the B.1.1.529 variant in the UK. However, the officials at the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said that they were monitoring the variant.&nbsp;

Ravi Gupta, a professor of clinical microbiology at Cambridge University, after analysing the variant said that his lab found that two of the mutations on B.1.1.529 reduced antibody recognition. Also, the mutations increased the rate of infectivity.

While the world is already struggling to get rid of the existing Delta variant of Covid, reports suggest that another variant has emerged and it could carry an “extremely high number” of mutations which could lead to further waves of the disease.

While the world is already struggling to get rid of the existing Delta variant of Covid, reports suggest that another variant has emerged and it could carry an “extremely high number” of mutations which could lead to further waves of the disease. The B.1.1.529 variant which has 32 spike mutations in the spike protein has 10 cases in three countries. This has been confirmed by genomic sequencing. The new strain would be named 'Nu.' The variant emerged in Botswana. In the region, three cases have been sequenced. Another six cases have been confirmed in South Africa, and one in Hong Kong. Dr Tom Peacock, a virologist at Imperial College, deemed the combination of mutations found in the Botswana variant as "horrific". Also read | Court orders compensation for botched-up treatment at IVF clinic in Belgium He further said that the variant could be 'worse than nearly anything else about', including the highly transmissible Delta strain. Taking to his Twitter, he wrote, "Worth emphasising this is at super low numbers right now in a region of Africa that is fairly well sampled, however it very very much should be monitored due to that horrific spike profile." Prof Francois Balloux, the director of the UCL Genetics Institute, said a large number of mutations in the variant accumulated in a “single burst." He further suggested that it may have evolved during chronic infection in a person with a weakened immune system. The person could possibly be an untreated HIV/Aids patient. Currently, there are no cases of the B.1.1.529 variant in the UK. However, the officials at the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said that they were monitoring the variant. Ravi Gupta, a professor of clinical microbiology at Cambridge University, after analysing the variant said that his lab found that two of the mutations on B.1.1.529 reduced antibody recognition. Also, the mutations increased the rate of infectivity.

As world continues to battle the Delta variant, a new variant 'worse than delta' emerges

For the first time, cases of Alpha variant of Sars-CoV-2 or Covid virus have been detected in pets. Two cats and a dog have tested positive in a PCR test.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The team, which conducted the study, also clarified Covid in pets remained ‘relatively rare’. The transmission seems to be taking place from humans to pets and not the other way round.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Dr Luca&nbsp;Ferasin, lead author, UK-based Ralph Veterinary Referral Centre, while commenting on the research, said that the exercise has highlighted the growing risk of domestic animals getting infected with the virus.

“Our study reports the first cases of cats and dogs affected by the Alpha Covid variant. We also reported the atypical clinical manifestations&nbsp;characterised&nbsp;by severe heart abnormalities, which is a well-recognised&nbsp;complication in people affected by COVID-19, but has never been found in pets before,” Dr&nbsp;Ferasin&nbsp;added.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-a-conservation-effort-3000-baby-river-turtles-released-in-peru-427163" hreflang="en">In a conservation effort, 3,000 baby river turtles released in Peru</a>

In addition to the above animals, two other cats and a dog displayed antibodies two to six weeks after developing signs of cardiac disease.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

These pets had an acute onset of cardiac disease, which includes severe myocarditis. It leads to the inflammation of the heart muscle.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

For the first time, cases of Alpha variant of Sars-CoV-2 or Covid virus have been detected in pets. Two cats and a dog have tested positive in a PCR test. The team, which conducted the study, also clarified Covid in pets remained ‘relatively rare’.

For the first time, cases of Alpha variant of Sars-CoV-2 or Covid virus have been detected in pets. Two cats and a dog have tested positive in a PCR test. The team, which conducted the study, also clarified Covid in pets remained ‘relatively rare’. The transmission seems to be taking place from humans to pets and not the other way round. Also Read: Abandoned dog Deng Deng goes under hammer, fetches $25,000 in China Dr Luca Ferasin, lead author, UK-based Ralph Veterinary Referral Centre, while commenting on the research, said that the exercise has highlighted the growing risk of domestic animals getting infected with the virus. “Our study reports the first cases of cats and dogs affected by the Alpha Covid variant. We also reported the atypical clinical manifestations characterised by severe heart abnormalities, which is a well-recognised complication in people affected by COVID-19, but has never been found in pets before,” Dr Ferasin added. Also Read: In a conservation effort, 3,000 baby river turtles released in Peru In addition to the above animals, two other cats and a dog displayed antibodies two to six weeks after developing signs of cardiac disease. These pets had an acute onset of cardiac disease, which includes severe myocarditis. It leads to the inflammation of the heart muscle. (With inputs from agencies)

In a first, Covid variant Alpha found in pets, says study    

A jump in the number of people in China infected with bird flu this year is raising concern among experts, who say a previously circulating strain appears to have changed and may be more infectious to people.

China has reported 21 human infections with the H5N6 subtype of avian influenza in 2021 to the World Health Organization (WHO), compared with only five last year, it said.

Though the numbers are much lower than the hundreds infected with H7N9 in 2017, the infections are serious, leaving many critically ill, and at least six dead.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-should-adopt-emergency-mode-as-new-covid-outbreaks-are-predicted-experts-423645">China should adopt 'emergency mode' as new Covid outbreaks are predicted: Experts</a>

"The increase in human cases in China this year is of concern. It's a virus that causes high mortality," said Thijs Kuiken, professor of comparative pathology at Erasmus University Medical Centre in Rotterdam.

Most of the cases had come into contact with poultry, and there are no confirmed cases of human-to-human transmission, said the WHO, which highlighted the rise in cases in a statement on October&nbsp;4.

It said further investigation was "urgently" required to understand the risk and the increase in spill over to people.

Since then, a 60-year-old woman in Hunan province was admitted to hospital in a critical condition with H5N6 influenza on October13, according to a Hong Kong government statement.

While human H5N6 cases have been reported, no outbreaks of H5N6 have been reported in poultry in China since February 2020.

China is the world's biggest poultry producer and top producer of ducks, which act as a reservoir for flu viruses.

The Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) could not be reached for comment on the rise in H5N6 human cases. However, a study published on its website last month said the "increasing genetic diversity and geographical distribution of H5N6 pose a serious threat to the poultry industry and human health".

Avian influenza viruses constantly circulate in domestic and wild birds, but rarely infect people. However, the evolution of the viruses, which have increased as poultry populations grow, is a major concern because they could change into a virus that spreads easily between people and cause a pandemic.

The largest number of H5N6 infections have been in southwestern Sichuan province, though cases have also been reported in neighbouring Chongqing and Guangxi, as well as Guangdong, Anhui and Hunan provinces.

At least 10 were caused by viruses genetically very similar to the H5N8 virus that ravaged poultry farms across Europe last winter and also killed wild birds in China. That suggests the latest H5N6 infections in China may be a new variant.

"It could be that this variant is a little more infectious (to people)or there could be more of this virus in poultry at the moment and that's why more people are getting infected," said Kuiken.

Four of the Sichuan cases raised poultry at home and had been in contact with dead birds, said a September report by China's CDC. Another had bought a duck from a live poultry market a week before developing symptoms.

China vaccinates poultry against avian influenza but the vaccine used last year may only partially protect against emerging viruses, preventing large outbreaks but allowing the virus to keep circulating, said Filip Claes, Regional Laboratory Coordinator at the Emergency Centre for Transboundary Animal Diseases at the Food and Agriculture Organization.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs did not respond to a request for comment.

Backyard farms in China are common and many people still prefer to buy live chickens at markets.

Guilin city in Guangxi region, which had two human cases in August, said last month it had suspended trading of live poultry in 13 urban markets and would abolish the trade within a year.

A jump in the number of people in China infected with bird flu this year is raising concern among experts, who say a previously circulating strain appears to have changed and may be more infectious to people.

A jump in the number of people in China infected with bird flu this year is raising concern among experts, who say a previously circulating strain appears to have changed and may be more infectious to people. China has reported 21 human infections with the H5N6 subtype of avian influenza in 2021 to the World Health Organization (WHO), compared with only five last year, it said. Though the numbers are much lower than the hundreds infected with H7N9 in 2017, the infections are serious, leaving many critically ill, and at least six dead. Also Read | China should adopt 'emergency mode' as new Covid outbreaks are predicted: Experts "The increase in human cases in China this year is of concern. It's a virus that causes high mortality," said Thijs Kuiken, professor of comparative pathology at Erasmus University Medical Centre in Rotterdam. Most of the cases had come into contact with poultry, and there are no confirmed cases of human-to-human transmission, said the WHO, which highlighted the rise in cases in a statement on October 4. It said further investigation was "urgently" required to understand the risk and the increase in spill over to people. Since then, a 60-year-old woman in Hunan province was admitted to hospital in a critical condition with H5N6 influenza on October13, according to a Hong Kong government statement. While human H5N6 cases have been reported, no outbreaks of H5N6 have been reported in poultry in China since February 2020. China is the world's biggest poultry producer and top producer of ducks, which act as a reservoir for flu viruses. The Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) could not be reached for comment on the rise in H5N6 human cases. However, a study published on its website last month said the "increasing genetic diversity and geographical distribution of H5N6 pose a serious threat to the poultry industry and human health". Avian influenza viruses constantly circulate in domestic and wild birds, but rarely infect people. However, the evolution of the viruses, which have increased as poultry populations grow, is a major concern because they could change into a virus that spreads easily between people and cause a pandemic. The largest number of H5N6 infections have been in southwestern Sichuan province, though cases have also been reported in neighbouring Chongqing and Guangxi, as well as Guangdong, Anhui and Hunan provinces. At least 10 were caused by viruses genetically very similar to the H5N8 virus that ravaged poultry farms across Europe last winter and also killed wild birds in China. That suggests the latest H5N6 infections in China may be a new variant. "It could be that this variant is a little more infectious (to people)or there could be more of this virus in poultry at the moment and that's why more people are getting infected," said Kuiken. Four of the Sichuan cases raised poultry at home and had been in contact with dead birds, said a September report by China's CDC. Another had bought a duck from a live poultry market a week before developing symptoms. China vaccinates poultry against avian influenza but the vaccine used last year may only partially protect against emerging viruses, preventing large outbreaks but allowing the virus to keep circulating, said Filip Claes, Regional Laboratory Coordinator at the Emergency Centre for Transboundary Animal Diseases at the Food and Agriculture Organization. The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs did not respond to a request for comment. Backyard farms in China are common and many people still prefer to buy live chickens at markets. Guilin city in Guangxi region, which had two human cases in August, said last month it had suspended trading of live poultry in 13 urban markets and would abolish the trade within a year.

Rise in human bird flu cases in China shows risk of fast-changing variants: Experts

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has recently said that the new mutated form of coronavirus, being termed as ‘Delta Plus’, may spread more easily than the regular Delta variant. It has been moved up to the "variant under investigation" category, to reflect this possible risk.

The scientists are confident that the existing vaccines should still work well and should be able to protect people.

As of now, the delta variant still accounts for most COVID-19 infections in the UK. However, the cases of 'Delta Plus' or AY.4.2 have been increasing. As per the official data, &nbsp;6 per cent of the COVID-19 cases are of this type.

The experts have said that it is unlikely to take off in a big way or escape current vaccines. However, the officials say that there is some early evidence that it may have an increased growth rate in the UK compared to Delta.

UKHSA said, "This sub-lineage has become increasingly common in the UK in recent months, and there is some early evidence that it may have an increased growth rate in the UK compared to Delta."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/delta-variant-will-not-increase-risk-of-developing-severe-childhood-covid-study-410720">Also read |&nbsp;Delta variant will not increase risk of developing severe childhood Covid: Study</a>

AY.4.2 is an offshoot of Delta that includes some new mutations affecting the spike protein. Other mutations, including, Y145H and A222V, have been found in various other coronavirus lineages since the beginning of the pandemic.

A few cases have been identified in the US. Also, there had been some cases in Denmark, but new infections with AY.4.2 have since gone down there.

The UK is already offering booster doses of the COVID-19 vaccine to higher risk people ahead of winter.

Dr Jenny Harries, Chief Executive of the UKHSA, was quoted by The BBC as saying, "The public health advice is the same for all current variants. Get vaccinated and, for those eligible, come forward for your third or booster dose as appropriate as soon as you are called.

"Continue to exercise caution. Wear a mask in crowded spaces and, when meeting people indoors, open windows and doors to ventilate the room. If you have symptoms take a PCR test and isolate at home until you receive a negative result."

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has recently said that the new mutated form of coronavirus, being termed as ‘Delta Plus’, may spread more easily than the regular Delta variant.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has recently said that the new mutated form of coronavirus, being termed as ‘Delta Plus’, may spread more easily than the regular Delta variant. It has been moved up to the "variant under investigation" category, to reflect this possible risk. The scientists are confident that the existing vaccines should still work well and should be able to protect people. As of now, the delta variant still accounts for most COVID-19 infections in the UK. However, the cases of 'Delta Plus' or AY.4.2 have been increasing. As per the official data, 6 per cent of the COVID-19 cases are of this type. The experts have said that it is unlikely to take off in a big way or escape current vaccines. However, the officials say that there is some early evidence that it may have an increased growth rate in the UK compared to Delta. UKHSA said, "This sub-lineage has become increasingly common in the UK in recent months, and there is some early evidence that it may have an increased growth rate in the UK compared to Delta." Also read | Delta variant will not increase risk of developing severe childhood Covid: Study AY.4.2 is an offshoot of Delta that includes some new mutations affecting the spike protein. Other mutations, including, Y145H and A222V, have been found in various other coronavirus lineages since the beginning of the pandemic. A few cases have been identified in the US. Also, there had been some cases in Denmark, but new infections with AY.4.2 have since gone down there. The UK is already offering booster doses of the COVID-19 vaccine to higher risk people ahead of winter. Dr Jenny Harries, Chief Executive of the UKHSA, was quoted by The BBC as saying, "The public health advice is the same for all current variants. Get vaccinated and, for those eligible, come forward for your third or booster dose as appropriate as soon as you are called. "Continue to exercise caution. Wear a mask in crowded spaces and, when meeting people indoors, open windows and doors to ventilate the room. If you have symptoms take a PCR test and isolate at home until you receive a negative result."

Delta 'Plus' variant may be more easily transmissible: UK health experts

The&nbsp;Delta&nbsp;variant&nbsp;of the virus that causes&nbsp;Covid-19&nbsp;doubles&nbsp;the&nbsp;risk&nbsp;of hospitalisation compared to the&nbsp;Alpha&nbsp;variant&nbsp;it has supplanted as the dominant strain worldwide, researchers reported Saturday in The Lancet.

Only 1.8 percent of the more than 43,000&nbsp;Covid&nbsp;cases assessed in comparing the two variants were in patients who had been fully vaccinated.

Three-quarters were completely unvaccinated, and 24 percent had only received one jab of a two-dose vaccine.

"The results from this study therefore primarily tell us about the&nbsp;risk&nbsp;of&nbsp;hospital&nbsp;admission for those who are unvaccinated or partially vaccinated," said co-lead author Anne Presanis, a Senior Statistician at the University of Cambridge's MRC Biostatistics Unit.

Researchers analysed healthcare data from 43,338&nbsp;COVID-19 cases in England from March 29 to May 23 of this year, including vaccination status, emergency care,&nbsp;hospital&nbsp;admission and other patient information.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kill-list-biden-says-us-troops-may-have-handed-a-list-of-american-citizens-to-taliban-408871">Also read |&nbsp;Kill list? Biden says US troops 'may' have handed a list of American citizens to Taliban</a>

All virus samples underwent whole genome sequencing, the surest way to confirm which&nbsp;variant&nbsp;had caused the infection.

Just under 80 percent of the cases were identified as the&nbsp;Alpha&nbsp;variant, and the rest were&nbsp;Delta.

Around one in 50 patients were admitted to&nbsp;hospital&nbsp;within 14 days of their first positive&nbsp;COVID-19 test.&nbsp;

After accounting for factors that are known to affect susceptibility to severe illness&nbsp;including age, ethnicity, and vaccination status, the researchers found the&nbsp;risk&nbsp;of being admitted to&nbsp;hospital&nbsp;was more than doubled with the&nbsp;Delta&nbsp;variant.

'Excellent protection'

Since these samples were taken,&nbsp;Delta&nbsp;has surged and now accounts for over 98 percent of new&nbsp;Covid-19 cases in Britain, the authors said.

Multiple studies have shown that full vaccination prevents infection with symptoms and hospitalisation, for both&nbsp;Alpha&nbsp;and&nbsp;Delta&nbsp;variants.

"We already know that vaccination offers excellent protection against&nbsp;Delta," said Gavin Dabrera, another lead author and a consultant epidemiologist at the National Infection Service, Public Health England.

"It is vital that those who have not received two doses of vaccine do so as soon as possible."&nbsp;

An earlier study from Scotland also reported a doubling in hospitalisation&nbsp;risk&nbsp;with&nbsp;Delta&nbsp;over&nbsp;Alpha, suggesting that&nbsp;Delta&nbsp;causes more severe disease.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;Delta&nbsp;variant&nbsp;was first reported in India in December 2020 and early studies found it to be up to 50 percent more transmissible than the&nbsp;Alpha&nbsp;variant, which was first identified in England in September last year.

Nearly 4.5 million deaths worldwide have been attributed to&nbsp;Covid-19, though the final tally is likely to be higher once "excess deaths" are calculated over the pandemic period.

In some countries,&nbsp;and some states in the United States,&nbsp;hospitalisation and death rates are the highest they have been since the first cases reported at the beginning of 2020.

The Delta variant of the virus that causes Covid-19 doubles the risk of hospitalisation compared to the Alpha variant it has supplanted as the dominant strain worldwide, researchers reported Saturday in The Lancet.

The Delta variant of the virus that causes Covid-19 doubles the risk of hospitalisation compared to the Alpha variant it has supplanted as the dominant strain worldwide, researchers reported Saturday in The Lancet. Only 1.8 percent of the more than 43,000 Covid cases assessed in comparing the two variants were in patients who had been fully vaccinated. Three-quarters were completely unvaccinated, and 24 percent had only received one jab of a two-dose vaccine. "The results from this study therefore primarily tell us about the risk of hospital admission for those who are unvaccinated or partially vaccinated," said co-lead author Anne Presanis, a Senior Statistician at the University of Cambridge's MRC Biostatistics Unit. Researchers analysed healthcare data from 43,338 COVID-19 cases in England from March 29 to May 23 of this year, including vaccination status, emergency care, hospital admission and other patient information. Also read | Kill list? Biden says US troops 'may' have handed a list of American citizens to Taliban All virus samples underwent whole genome sequencing, the surest way to confirm which variant had caused the infection. Just under 80 percent of the cases were identified as the Alpha variant, and the rest were Delta. Around one in 50 patients were admitted to hospital within 14 days of their first positive COVID-19 test. After accounting for factors that are known to affect susceptibility to severe illness including age, ethnicity, and vaccination status, the researchers found the risk of being admitted to hospital was more than doubled with the Delta variant. 'Excellent protection' Since these samples were taken, Delta has surged and now accounts for over 98 percent of new Covid-19 cases in Britain, the authors said. Multiple studies have shown that full vaccination prevents infection with symptoms and hospitalisation, for both Alpha and Delta variants. "We already know that vaccination offers excellent protection against Delta," said Gavin Dabrera, another lead author and a consultant epidemiologist at the National Infection Service, Public Health England. "It is vital that those who have not received two doses of vaccine do so as soon as possible." An earlier study from Scotland also reported a doubling in hospitalisation risk with Delta over Alpha, suggesting that Delta causes more severe disease. The Delta variant was first reported in India in December 2020 and early studies found it to be up to 50 percent more transmissible than the Alpha variant, which was first identified in England in September last year. Nearly 4.5 million deaths worldwide have been attributed to Covid-19, though the final tally is likely to be higher once "excess deaths" are calculated over the pandemic period. In some countries, and some states in the United States, hospitalisation and death rates are the highest they have been since the first cases reported at the beginning of 2020.

COVID-19: Delta doubles hospital risk vs Alpha variant

A recent study suggests that two doses of COVID-19 vaccine remains the best way to protect against the Delta variant. As per the study, the Oxford-AstraZeneca jab offers the same high protection as the Pfizer-BioNTech after four to five months.

A recent study suggests that two doses of COVID-19 vaccine remains the best way to protect against the Delta variant. As per the study, the Oxford-AstraZeneca jab offers the same high protection as the Pfizer-BioNTech after four to five months. However, neither of them is effective as it is against the Alpha variant, which is responsible for most UK infections last winter. As a part of the study, the researchers analysed, two and a half million tests results from 743,526 participants in the UK's COVID-19 household-infection survey. The results concluded that Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine had 93 per cent effectiveness against symptomatic infection two weeks after the second dose, compared with Oxford-AstraZeneca which was at 71 per cent. Also read | Watch | COVID-19: China locks citizens behind iron bars as Delta variant surge Also, over time, the Pfizer-BioNTech's effectiveness dropped while the Oxford-AstraZeneca's remained largely the same. Prof Sarah Walker, at the University of Oxford was quoted by the BBC as saying "when you start very very high, you've got a long way to go". "The World Health Organization set the bar at 50 per cent and we're way above that," she said. "Both of these vaccines are still doing very well against Delta." Few other discoveries of the study stated that people who have had COVID-19 gain even more antibodies when fully vaccinated. Also, younger people gain more protection from vaccination than older.

COVID-19 vaccines still effective against Delta variant, says study

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