The Omicron covid variant is terrifying the world these days. Vaccine manufactures are promising to make their boosters appropriate for this new variant as well, as you will see in the latest news below.
Omicron covid variant is terrifying the world
The new variant is called Omicron. Experts are currently investigating whether mutations are making the variant more infectious or evading immune response.
The Wall Street Journal just noted that the fast-spreading Omicron coronavirus variant was recently identified in South Africa.
It seems that this has virologists and health authorities on edge because of its many mutations, but much about its infectiousness and virulence remains unknown.
“Scientists said some of the roughly 50 mutations on the new variant, called B.1.1.529, could potentially render it more transmissible or reduce vaccine effectiveness.”
The same online publication also noted the fact that it will take time for virologists and infectious-disease researchers to study the variant’s spread and the potential impact on vaccines and therapeutics.
CNN reported that the new Covid-19 variant discovered in South Africa is a “variant of concern.”
More data on the new variant is expected
Reuters notes that BioNTech said on Friday it expects more data on a worrying new coronavirus variant detected in South Africa within two weeks to help determine whether its vaccine produced with partner Pfizer Inc (PFE.N) would have to be reworked.
The Guardian also shared their opinion on the new variant.
“This variant is a powerful reminder that failing to distribute vaccines equitably is a failure not only of ethics but of self-protection: the more the virus circulates, the greater the risk of new variants.”
The novel coronavirus has definitely managed to change our lives and normality as we knew it. Things will probably never go back to how they used to be before the terrible 2020 came.
