Omicron to infect and reinfect vaccinated and recovered individuals, says WHO

On Monday, WHO issued another warning regarding the potential danger of the newly discovered Omicron variant. It said that Omicron is not only dangerous for the infected individuals but also for the fully vaccinated ones. The WHO’s director stated that Omicron is spreading faster than the Delta variant and it is very likely that it can infect the vaccinated people and reinfect the infected ones. Moreover, according to the WHO’s chief scientist, it isn’t wise to conclude that Omicron can only cause milder symptoms. It is evading immune systems badly and thus booster shots shall be given to those with weak immune systems.   

A recently reported study found Omicron resistant to the current vaccines, booster shots, and antibody treatments. The researchers obtained serum from convalescent patients and individuals who were vaccinated with one of the present COVID-19 vaccines. And subjected the variant to neutralization by these serums. The variant depicted marked resistance to neutralization.

Still, the experts are urging people to get themselves vaccinated with booster shots. It may not provide 100% protection but can counter the deadly effect of the variant to a great extent.

For further information at Desert News, check the link below; https://www.deseret.com/coronavirus/2021/12/20/22846988/omicron-variant-infect-vaccinated-people-reinfect-recovered-patients-world-health-organizations