Some virologists assume that the Omicron strain may have existed before its identification. Representatives of the World Health Organization (WHO) are confident that cases of the new coronavirus mutation will only grow in the near future. So far, 24 states have already reported Omicron cases.
In the period from November 29 to December 4, virologists came across another coronavirus mutation – Omicron. It is believed to have originated in South Africa. The first sample of the Omicron strain was taken in the GGD test lanes on November 9. Notably, the lion’s share of scientists strongly believe that this mutation has been existing for some time not only in South Africa but in many other countries. This is why this is not an entirely new strain identified and evolved in South Africa.
On December 6, the United States confirmed its first known COVID case caused by the Omicron variant in California. It was discovered in a fully vaccinated patient who traveled to South Africa. The second case was recorded in Minnesota.
Currently, the list of countries where the Omicron variant strain has been identified includes the United Kingdom, France, Israel, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Italy, Sweden, Denmark, Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, and a number of states in South Africa.
To lessen the risks of the new coronavirus variant spread, the US, UK, and EU temporarily suspended flights from South Africa. They also imposed strict quarantine restrictions for all tourists from this region. The South African authorities were outraged by such measures. The WHO representatives also criticize virologists who claim that many Omicron cases are related to trips to South Africa. They suppose that this strain appeared some time ago.
