Scientists’ opinions on new Corona virus variant Omicron

The latest new variant of SARS-CoV-2 is called Omicron. Omicron is the thirteenth variant. The new variant Omicron first emerged in South Africa. On November 11, this latest variant was discovered.

According to the latest tests, the new variant Omicron is twice as invasive as the earlier latest variant Delta. Omicron is so dominant and contentious because the new variant has so many mutations or changes at once. The investigation shows Omicron has 34 changes in spike protein. Scientists speculate this change can lead to three outcomes:

1. Omicron can spread faster than any previous variant.

2. Omicron can quickly assemble resistance against current vaccines

3. Omicron can damage the victim's body more than before

However, scientists are not sure about anything yet. From 2020 to 2021, more than 25 million people worldwide have been infected with the virus in two years. One out of every 30 people has been infected with the Coronavirus. More than 50 lakhs have died so far. One in every hundred and a half has died of COVID-19. Most of the others have recovered.

So far, a study shows two doses of AstraZeneca or Pfizer vaccine can protect against Omicron in 6 months 20%- 40%. Three doses or boosters can give 70% protection from Omicron.

The writer is a physician in the UK.
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