Omicron And Omicron-like Variants: How Infectious Are They?

With the latest of a continual line of COVID variants having entered Australia, questions surrounding the relative hazards of Omicron and similar variants are arising quickly. Queensland is the first state to have confirmed Omicron cases with two of the genetic variant have been detected, both contained in individuals quarantining. Fortunately, authorities have said that both men are “well” after recovering from the symptoms.

Much about these variants and their interactions with humans is unknown. Queensland’s Chief Health Officer Peter Aitken has said it is “still too early” to understand if there are any meaningful differences in the nature of the Omicron strain. As with all viruses, genetic variations emerge as pressures to replicate with changing population immunity. These consistent changes may affect clinical severity and vaccine efficacy.

This novel strain is yet to be reported in the Queensland community, as both cases have been contained in hotel quarantines. It is still too early to say how transmissible the virus is or how effective the vaccines are against it. Despite these questions remaining unanswered, experts including Dr. Peter Aitken are calling for Pfizer booster shots in the community. With much left to still be uncovered, Dr. Aitken has stated “The COVID journey is just starting”.