What you need to know about the Covid-19 Omicron variant
The Department of Health answers some frequently asked questions around Omicron.
Omicron spread rapidly to a number of countries last week, including the United States. Its prevalence was detected in South Africa, with the number of new Covid-19 infections showing significant increases each day.
Dr Michelle Groome of the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) noted that the degree of increase is worrying, with the weekly average of new cases per day rocketing from 300 to 3 500 in just two weeks.
The number of reported cases rose from 4 373 on Tuesday, November 30, to 8 561 on Wednesday, December 1, while only 1 275 cases were reported on the preceding Wednesday (November 24).
Last week the NICD said epidemiological data showed Omicron was able to evade some immunity, but that existing vaccines should still protect against severe disease and death. According to the institute, 74% of all the virus genomes sequenced in November were of the new variant.
The Department of Health answers some frequently asked questions around Omicron.
1. What is it?
It’s a new heavily mutated coronavirus variant, also known as B.1.1.529, which has been designated as a variant of concern by the World Health Organization (WHO).
2. When was Omicron first detected?
The earliest sample was detected on November 11 in Botswana.
3. Why are we worried about it?
Omicron has more than 30 mutations on its spike protein (face). That’s more than double carried by Delta, raising concerns about the immunity offered by prior infections.
4. Is it more transmissible?
It’s not yet clear. However, within two weeks of its detection, it had outpaced Delta to become the main strain in Gauteng, where there is a surge in cases. Its R0 value (used to measure transmissibility) is 1.93, compared to Delta’s 1.47.
5. Will vaccines work against it?
Yes, most likely. A crucial objective remains to increase vaccination rates. Should updated vaccines be developed, these will also be used, as guided by the WHO.
6. What about medication?
Currently, oxygen and Dexamethasone have been saving lives. There is, however, very exciting data coming from two antivirals, Molnupiravir and Favipiravir.
7. What can one do?
• Get vaccinated during Vooma Vaccination Week (December 3 to 10) or as soon as possible! Additional sites will be open during Vooma Week.
• Wear a mask.
• Sanitize or wash your hands.
• Maintain social distancing.
• If you need to attend gatherings, ensure that the space is well-ventilated.
• Enquiries: sacoronavirus.co.za
