Experts' description of 'Omicron' variant raises concern

Since the 'Omicron' variant of Covid-19 has been sequenced recently, it has caused fresh fears across the globe. From travel restrictions to vaccine pushes, world leaders are stepping on the pedal to avoid a deadly wave.

Amidst these concerns, renowned medical experts' statements are giving rise to concerns and stress upon the immediate need to take proper precautions.

Dr Anthony Fauci, U.S. President Joe Biden’s chief medical adviser, said Covid-19’s Omicron variant may well already have arrived in the U.S.

Appearing on a TV show, Fauci said, “I would not be surprised if it is already present in U.S. We have not detected it yet, but when a virus shows this degree of transmissibility, it is almost invariably likely to go essentially all over”.

Meanwhile, as per a report by NDTV, WHO's Dr Soumya Swaminathan has said that it might well be a wake-up call for Covid appropriate behaviour with a special emphasis on India.

"This variant could be more transmissible than Delta, though one can't say anything authoritatively yet. We need a science-based strategy to battle 'Omicron'," Swaminathan said.

Stressing on the need to be careful and keep using masks, she said, "masks have been called "vaccines in your pocket" and have been found to be highly effective."

Also read: 61 covid cases on South Africa flight, Dutch authorities check for omicron variant

Fully vaccinating all adults, closely monitoring any unusual uptick in cases are some other suggestions made by the WHO chief scientist.

In India the reassurance comes from the fact that nearly 80% of the eligible population has had at least one dose of the vaccine against Covid-19.