Is the Omicron Variant more severe?

The Omicron variant has been considered the most extensive mutation of COVID-19 as of today. It derives from South Africa and was first identified on the 24th November 2021. Due to the actuality of this variant, research is still being conducted. However, current data — according to 'The Economist' — has “ shown surging cases but milder symptoms''. 

An official from the World Health Organisation (WHO) has also reassured that “existing vaccines should still protect the Omicron Variant from severe Covid cases.” In fact, blood sample on 12 Omicron infected individuals, presented better results than expected according to Alex Signal — virologist at the African Health Research. Other reports from hospitals such as the major hospital complex in Pretoria, have noticed that its patients infected by the Omicron Variant are experiencing much less severe symptoms. However, much more data is still needed in order to understand the accurate nature of the Omicron Variant. 


Because of the variant’s extensive level of contagiousness, the variant has been spread in more than 30 countries on six continents within a month. For instance, Britain’s government has reported 336 Omicron cases on Monday, noticing an increase two and a half times greater than the data collected on Friday. Similar patterns of contagiousness have been reported in Denmark. 

Although the Omicron is expected to be less severe, governments remain alert and have increased Covid-19 surveillance by placing further restrictions on international travel and vaccination requirements. This, however, has spread further fear on the world’s economy and paranoia toward another potential lockdown. 

Arianna Zhou 

1 minute read.