Omicron: The new variant of concern needs preparedness, not panic

Abstract

SARS-CoV-2 continues to be a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. On November 26, the World Health Organization (WHO) labeled the omicron type as a covid-19 variant of concern, prompting travel restrictions, a rush to accelerate booster immunization programmes, and new attempts to address vaccination disparities. According to the WHO, omicron is a "very high" concern throughout the world, and preliminary research indicates that it may be a more transmissible type, leading to infection surges (1,2). The Indian government keeps a close eye on the issue and gives appropriate guidelines as needed.

Omicron threat will depend on its transmissibility, Virulence, and capacity to evade immunity in those previously vaccinated or infected. Even if the disease is milder, the rapid onslaught of the virus could overwhelm health care systems (doubling time of 2.5 days means 50X increase in 2 weeks) (3). We should ensure mitigation plans are in place to maintain essential health services and that necessary resources are in place to respond to potential surges.