PUBLISHED DECISION GUIDE
What do we know about the Omicron variant?
The WHO has designated Omicron as a Variant of Concern. Here's what is known so far.
On November 26, the World Health Organization officially designated a new strain of novel coronavirus as the Omicron variant and categorized it as a Variant of Concern. The strain has a large number of mutations and was first reported to WHO from South Africa on November 24.
Independently written English guidance based on cited public sources. Every public guide is human reviewed; it is not an official translation of the source publisher.
How widespread is the Omicron variant?
As of Tuesday, the Omicron strain had spread to at least 17 countries, with South Africa as the most affected country, where the confirmed number of cases has reached 77.
How potent is the Omicron variant?
According to the announcement made by WHO, it is not yet clear whether Omicron is more transmissible compared to other variants, including Delta.
What are the symptoms of the Omicron variant?
While symptoms linked to the variant have been described as "extremely mild" by the South African doctor who first raised attention over the new strain, it is currently still unknown whether this strain will cause severe symptoms.
Reported symptoms include body aches, pains, headache, "scratchy throat", and feelings of extreme tiredness. However, symptoms that have been associated with previous strains of the virus, such as cough and loss of taste or smell, are not present.
How is the Omicron variant transmitted?
Like previous strains, the Omicron variant is spread via respiratory droplets, close contact and aerosolized particles.
In what environments does the Omicron variant spread?
Like previous strains, closed indoor environments are most conducive to spread.
Public sources
Editorial process
Editorial review and corrections
This guide received human editorial review. Use its public sources and review date to assess the current information boundary.
Request an editorial correction