Omicron Variant Spreads Faster Than Previous Strains, Reports Armenian Health Ministry

The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised alarms regarding a new subvariant of the coronavirus, dubbed 'Omicron' (B.1.1.529), labeling it as a variant of concern. This information was released by the Armenian Ministry of Health.

‘The new strain of the coronavirus, which has around 50 mutations, 30 of which are in the spike protein, was first identified in the Republic of South Africa. Cases linked to the Omicron variant have also been reported in Botswana, Hong Kong, Belgium, and Israel. According to the WHO, the B.1.1.529 virus could affect the protein content in the body due to various mutations, implying that current vaccines may not be as effective,’ the statement noted.

The WHO also indicated that this variant spreads more quickly than its predecessors, as evidenced by the experience in South Africa. Consequently, the new strain could infect a greater number of individuals, including those who have recovered from other strains. The organization has urged countries to pay greater attention to studying this new coronavirus variant.

Several countries have already implemented restrictive measures, including imposing entry bans from various African nations.