What we know about the Omicron variant

What is Omicron and what precautions should you take to protect your family?

The highly transmissible Omicron variant of COVID-19 is driving an unprecedented surge of infections globally. We’ve gathered the latest expert information about this variant and will continue to update this article as more information becomes available.

What is the Omicron variant?

The Omicron variant of COVID-19 has been called a variant of concern by WHO based on the evidence that it has several mutations that may have an impact on how it behaves. There is consistent evidence that Omicron is spreading significantly faster than the Delta variant in countries with documented community transmission, with a doubling time of 2-3 days. The overall risk related to this new variant remains very high.

How did the Omicron variant develop?

When a virus is circulating widely and causing numerous infections, the likelihood of the virus mutating increases. The more opportunities a virus has to spread, the more opportunities it has to undergo changes.

New variants like Omicron are a reminder that the COVID-19 pandemic is far from over. It is therefore essential that people get the vaccine when available to them and continue to follow existing advice on preventing the spread of the virus, including physical distancing, wearing masks, regular hand washing and keeping indoor areas well ventilated.

Is the Omicron variant more contagious?

Yes, the Omicron variant is more contagious than previous variants. However, being vaccinated and taking precautions such as avoiding crowded spaces, keeping your distance from others and wearing a mask are critical in helping to prevent the spread of COVID-19, and we know these actions have been effective against other variants. 

Does the Omicron variant cause different symptoms?  

There is no information to suggest that Omicron causes different COVID-19 symptoms from other COVID-19 variants.

Are the COVID-19 vaccines effective against the Omicron variant? 

Researchers are looking into any potential impact the Omicron variant has on the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines. Information is still limited, but there may be a small reduction in the effectiveness of vaccines against severe illness and death, and a decline in preventing mild disease and infection. However, WHO reports that so far it looks like the currently available vaccines offer significant protection against severe disease and death.

It is also important to be vaccinated to protect against the other widely circulating variants, such as the Delta one. When it’s your turn, make sure to get vaccinated. If your vaccination involves two doses, it’s important to receive both in order to have the maximum protection. 

 

Are children more likely to contract the Omicron variant?

Research is ongoing into Omicron’s transmissibility and we will update as more information becomes available. However, people who are mixing socially and those who are unvaccinated are more susceptible to contracting COVID-19.

 

How can I protect myself and my family against the Omicron variant?

The most important thing you can do is reduce your risk of exposure to the virus. To protect yourself and your loved ones, make sure to:

• Wear a mask that covers your nose and mouth. Make sure that your hands are clean when you put on and remove your mask.
• Keep a physical distance of at least 1 metre from others.
• Avoid poorly ventilated or crowded spaces.
• Open windows to improve ventilation indoors.
• Wash your hands regularly. 
• When it’s your turn, get vaccinated. WHO-approved COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective.

Source ; https://www.unicef.org/coronavirus/what-we-know-about-omicron-variant