Omicron variant of coronavirus spreads to several countries
Omicron variant
New Covid variant termed “Variant of concern”. The Omicron variant is feared to be spreading.
Where: Africa, Rest of the world
The Facts
The new Covid-19 variant B.1.1.529, detected first in South Africa, was designated “Variant of Concern” by the World Health Organization – It was named Omicron.
The variant is already feared to have spread to several countries.
German minister Kai Klose stated, “It is very likely that the #Omicron variant has already arrived in Germany.” (translated)
The UK Secretary of State for Health and Social Care Sajid Javid tweeted, “We have been made aware by @UKHSA of two UK cases of the Omicron variant. The two cases are linked, and there is a connection with travel to southern Africa.”
The World Trade Organization postponed its ministerial meeting due to the new variant outbreak triggering travel restrictions.
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