UPSC CSE Prelims 2024

Omicron

What is Omicron?

Omicron is a new coronavirus variant 

B 1.1. 529. It was identified in Southern Africa in November 2021. 

The number of new cases in South Africa has increased rapidly with the introduction of this variant. It has been categorized as a SARS-CoV-2 “variant of concern” by WHO.

Variants of concern listed by WHO:

Omicron (B 1.1. 529):It was identified in Southern Africa in November 2021

Delta (B.1.617.2): emerged in India in November 2020. 

Gamma (P.1): emerged in Brazil in October 2020. 

Beta (B.1.351): emerged in South Africa in May 2020. 

Alpha (B.1.1.7): emerged in Britain in September 2020.

Extra Points:-

1)The scale of infections in the UK and France hints that India could see tens of thousands of cases a day soon, the government's COVID task force chief said on Dec. 18.

2)When can the pandemic end, post Omicron?

Pfizer Inc said on Dec. 17 that the COVID-19 pandemic could extend through next year and announced plans to develop a three-dose vaccine regimen for children ages 2 to 16, a move that could delay its authorisation.

3)Omicron coronavirus variant was five times more likely to reinfect people than its predecessor, Delta.

4)Pfizer executives said the company believed that by 2024, the disease should be endemic around the globe, meaning it would no longer be a pandemic. 



Post a Comment

Cookie Consent
We serve cookies on this site to analyze traffic, remember your preferences, and optimize your experience.
Oops!
It seems there is something wrong with your internet connection. Please connect to the internet and start browsing again.
AdBlock Detected!
We have detected that you are using adblocking plugin in your browser.
The revenue we earn by the advertisements is used to manage this website, we request you to whitelist our website in your adblocking plugin.
Site is Blocked
Sorry! This site is not available in your country.
//disable Text Selection and Copying