The omicron variant has reached over 40 countries, however, most of the affected were the arriving travelers. Scientists and researchers from Botswana and South Africa have tested more than 100 infected patients’ samples, found dozens of mutations they had never seen before, and asked authorities to implement newer travel restrictions.
As per the scientists in South Africa, it seems Omnicron is spreading faster than any other variant due to its combined ability to be transferred by contact and to dodge the body’s immune system.
Though the World Health Organization (WHO) has acted eagerly, numerous countries have started to take precautionary and preventive measures. More than 10 countries, including the United States, have announced that they would seal their borders for travelers from Southern Africa. On the other hand, countries like Israel, Japan, and Morocco went one step ahead and sealed their borders from all overseas travelers.
According to the US government, from Monday, all approaching passengers to the US are required to test negative within a day before their flights, or carry proof of recovery. The Omnicron variant has been reported in one-third of the United States (16 states). Numerous vaccination centers report long queues and already booked vaccination slots for upcoming days, increasing hazards.
Moreover, the Omicron version of the coronavirus has spread throughout Australia, with at least 15 cases reported across New South Wales and an infection suspected in Queensland.
As per health officials in New South Wales (NSW), up to five persons in Sydney, Australia’s largest metropolis, have locally tested positive from the Omicron variant.
According to NSW chief health officer Kerry Chant, the Omicron cases have been connected to two schools and a climbing gym in Sydney’s western suburbs, which may be the source of a confirmed new variant infection in the Australian Capital Territory.
However, federal authorities have confirmed that they would stick with the plan to keep the economy open, hoping the newer variant would be milder compared to other coronavirus strains. In contrast, some state governments have sealed their domestic borders to restrict infection.
