New Covid variant shocks the world - 22nd December 2021

Any hopes that the pandemic may be slowing pace have now vanished as an emerging variant, named Omicron, spreads rapidly around the world.

It was first identified by scientists in South Africa analysing PCR test results, who were struck by some unusual features. They questioned whether this was a Covid-19 variant or a totally new virus. Experts conducted additional tests, looking into the virus's genetic characteristics.

Professor Eftyxia Vardas is head of virology at the Lancet Laboratories, which identified Omicron. Her team's results were forwarded to the country's national agencies for communicable diseases.

Professor Eftyxia Vardas: "We presented that data to them. And then they spoke to other people around the country that had, were also observing the same thing. And that was the discovery of Omicron."

Analysing the emerging test data, virologists observed a troubling development. The Delta variant, previously the source of the majority of infections in South Africa, was being replaced by Omicron. Omicron was also causing a noticeable rise in infections.

Although many countries closed down travel from South Africa and all neighbouring countries, cases of Omicron have multiplied around the world.

Professor Vardas believes further research is required to identify how Omicron functions and transmits so effectively.

Professor Eftyxia Vardas: "So, we're not sure what it is. Is it Omicron is a better virus and can be transmitted better? Or that people were letting their guards drop and congregating together and spreading it within certain groupings? So, you know, that can occur as well."

Globally, experts are racing to investigate the likely impact of Omicron on the pandemic. According to the World Health Organisation, early data indicate that there's an increased risk of infection for people who've already had either the virus or the vaccines. Fortunately, some indicators point to Omicron's symptoms being less severe.