The Omicron variant[1] 

was declared a variant of concern (VOC) on November 26, 2021, by

WHO. The variant that first emerged in South Africa is said to have a high transmissibility
rate than the previous Delta variant that was first observed in India in October 2020.
Currently, there is limited data on the Omicron variant, but due to its mutations in its spike
protein which are around 30 in number, it can cause immunity evasion and more severe
disease.

It also has a high binding capacity to ACE2 receptors that are present in the alveoli cells
which can lead to an increased virus entry compared to that of the Delta variant. This further
means that the Omicron variant has a higher replication rate and viral load. The mutations
present in the variants spikes protein could result in a low antigen-antibody immune
response from the vaccine - in other words, there could be decreased vaccine efficacy.

WHO also revealed that the Omicron variant seems to be spreading faster than the previous
Delta variant that was responsible for the surge of cases around the world in

the months prior. It is however important to remember that Omicron is still being
researched as a variant and there is not a full understanding of its clinical picture. However,
the variant should not be dismissed even though it seems to be causing a less severe
disease.

The advice from medical professionals still remains the same:

- Ensure that you are fully vaccinated with the available vaccines in the country: you are only
FULLY vaccinated if you’ve received both the required doses.

- Follow safety protocol: Always mask up, make sure to stay 6 feet away from people when
in public, isolate yourself if you’ve contracted the virus, and get yourself tested if you’re
showing symptoms of the virus.

The most common symptoms of the omicron virus are cough, fatigue, congestion, and
runny nose that are similar to other variants. Those that contract the COVID-19 virus also
report symptoms of headache, sore throat, nausea or vomiting, and diarrhea.

The COVID-19[2]vaccines should continue to be of priority when it comes to this pandemic.

Regardless of the variants, their transmission, or the severity of disease they cause. There is
no evidence that suggests that the currently available vaccines are ineffective with the new
Omicron variant. Vaccinations still have the ability to prevent severe disease and in some
cases, death.