Omicron: A Highly Mutated Variation Reported in 57 Nations
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According to the World Health Organization, a highly infectious Omicron strain has been found in 57 nations. The WHO also stated that this strain is more contagious than the original.
Since its discovery in Southern Africa 10 weeks ago, this rapidly spreading Omicron strain of COVID-19 has quickly become dominant. According to WHO, the variation that accounts for more than 93% of all COVID-19 specimens collected in the last month includes numerous sub-lineages, including BA.1, BA.1.1, BA.2, and BA.3.
BA.1 and BA.1.1 still account for 96% of all Omicron sequences. However, the WHO reported an increase in cases involving BA.2. So far, 57 nations have submitted BA.2-designated sequences to GISAID, the health organisation added.
They also advise people to be informed that this virus is still in circulation and evolving. It is critical that everyone must take steps to limit their exposure to this virus, wherever the variant is circulating, said Maria Van Kerkhove, one of the WHO’s leading COVID-19 scientists.
