Omicron strain at global level is high – WHO

The World Health Organization (WHO) said on Monday that the new Omicron Coronavirus strain has a high chance of spreading globally.

“Given mutations that may confer immune escape potential and possibly transmissibility advantage, the likelihood of potential further spread of Omicron at the global level is high,” according to the WHO’s most recent technical paper on the strain.

It stated that, depending on these characteristics, future COVID-19 surges could occur, which could have severe consequences, depending on a number of factors, including where surges may occur.

“The overall global risk associated with the new VOC Omicron is rated as extremely high.”

“To date, no deaths have been linked to the new OMICRON Coronavirus strain.”

“Because of the risk of importation by incoming travelers from Omicron-infected areas, countries may increase sampling from inbound travelers.”

“Positive RT-PCR samples should be sequenced to confirm the presence of the Omicron,” according to the WHO.

It also suggested that national testing strategies be updated to include available diagnostic tools for rapid testing, reporting, and effective testing decentralization, as well as that countries be prepared to tighten social and sanitary measures to combat the virus.

Despite the uncertainties, the organization stated that it is reasonable to assume that currently available vaccines provide some protection against severe disease and death.