The Omicron variant appears better able to break into cells and evade immunity, and seems to replicate faster in the airways than the Delta variant
As Omicron has rapidly taken over as the dominant variant of the coronavirus in South Africa and the U.K., scientists are beginning to piece together what gives it its evolutionary advantage.
Researchers are still refining and augmenting their findings, but Omicron’s heightened transmissibility appears to be a combination of several properties: It seems able to more easily bind to and break into human respiratory cells; it appears to replicate faster once within our bodies; and it can substantially evade the immunity gained from past infection or vaccination.
Singapore Latest News, Singapore Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Omicron cases jump in L.A. County as experts warn of rapid spreadOmicron cases jump in L.A. County as experts warns of rapid spread
Read more »
Omicron Seen Doubling Every 1½ Days in Parts of U.K.Omicron cases in parts of the U.K. were estimated to be doubling every 1½ days as health officials in South Africa reported significantly lower Covid-19 hospital admission rates than earlier in the pandemic despite a surge of infections
Read more »
Fauci says omicron will soon become dominant Covid variant in U.S., urges people to get vaccines and boostersAs omicron spreads, Dr. Anthony Fauci said 'things could get really bad, particularly for the unvaccinated.'
Read more »
One Million Revelers Still Poised to Pack Times Square on New Year's -- Despite Omicron's SpreadEven though Gov. Kathy Hochul announced 21,027 new cases on Friday, the party will go down as planned
Read more »
Covid-19: Omicron spreading at lightning speed - French PMRestrictions are being tightened across Europe as countries battle a new wave of Covid-19 infections.
Read more »
Japan to extend foreigner entry curb on Omicron concerns- mediaJapan will extend a curb on foreigners entering the country beyond year-end to prevent the spread of the Omicron variant, the Yomiuri newspaper reported on Saturday citing anonymous government sources.
Read more »