This post is about omicron variant of COVID.
Why do we have to know about any new variants?
✓ more infectious than previous one?
✓ if it's more virulent?
✓ any diagnostic difficulties?
✓ treatment failure?
✓ does previous vaccine work for it?
Basically this OMICRON has more than 30 different mutations on surface of S1 or S2 spike protein with lineage number B.1.1.529 variant of concern (voc).
Preliminary data shows that it is highly infectious but the data is limited. We need to wait for further studies.
Most of the vaccines are targeting 'S' spike protein so antibodies are produced against 'S' spike. Risk of vaccine failure due to 'S' spike mutation is still a point of concern but data is limited now.
Diagnostics- most of the other targets (including N and RdRp genes) remain unaffected. These RTPCR tests detect atleast 2 different SARS-CoV-2 targets, which serves as a backup in case mutation arises. Current PCR tests can detect this variant. 'S' gene target failure can occur if not detected.
Severity of disease - more in immunocompromised and extremes of age groups.
Effectiveness of vaccines - Antibodies decrease severity and death .
Reinfection is higher with omicron.
Treatment - steroids and IL-6 receptor blockers are still effective.
So, be cautious but don't panic!
That's all!
Dr.Madhuri
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