Read on to understand how: Omicron, especially BA.2 subvariant, is difficult to detect, hence, there are certain apprehensions regarding how future COVID variants can be identified.“It can be concerning when something new comes along and we don’t know much about it," said Professor Tim Spector, lead scientist for a study conducted by UK-based COVID tracker app ZOE.
Experts suggest that it is extremely essential to combine different kinds of tests, surveys etc. to remain on top of COVID while looking for new variants. “PCR tests have been incredibly useful in tracking the emergence of variants," the study said.
And, it should be considered to identify the next Variant of Concern. Thanks to more than 30 mutations in the spike protein, Omicron has changed the way the COVID virus appears to our immune system. “In a partially immune or totally immune population, Omicron has the edge" explained Professor Wendy Barclay, Head of Infectious Diseases at Imperial College London, during the course of the study. “That means the antibodies we made in response to previous infections or a vaccination don’t ‘see’ Omicron as well as Delta and previous variants." As we learn more about Omicron, there may be changes in how we use vaccines and boosters to best protect the population. “The next big discussions will be around where we go in terms of protecting future vulnerable people" Barclay said.
Patients infected with Omicron are reporting cold-like symptoms such as a sore throat, severe body pain, fatigue, severe headache.