Two novel Omicron sub-variants are being tracked by WHO: What we know so far

Key Takeaways:

• The introduction of the more transmissible BA.2 omicron strain has sped up the number of daily Covid-19 cases in many nations.
• The World Health Organization investigates if they are more contagious or dangerous. The World Health Organization (WHO) dismissed a statement on Monday.

While introducing the more transmissible BA.2 omicron strain has accelerated an increase in the number of daily Covid-19 cases in numerous countries, two additional sub-variants of Omicron - BA.4 and BA.5 - are now under WHO's control.

As per Reuters, the World Health Organization examines if they are more infectious or hazardous. On Monday, the World Health Organization (WHO) dismissed a statement. "A few dozen instances of two novel sub-variants of the highly transmissible Omicron strain are being tracked by us." As per Reuters, the World Health Organization said on Monday, "We are already tracking BA.1 and BA.2, which are now internationally dominant, BA.1.1 and BA.3."

Here's what we have learned regarding the two new variations thus far.

1. What are the differences between BA.4 and BA.5 variants?

The BA.4 and BA.5 sub-variants of the BA.1 Omicron variant are sister variants. The BA.1 and BA.2 varieties are already the most common globally. Nearly 94 percent of all sequenced instances belong to the Omicron subvariant BA.2.

2. How quickly are these mutations spreading?

Viruses are constantly evolving, but only some alterations impact their ability to propagate. Because of their 'additional alterations,' the WHO has begun following the BA.4 and BA.5 variations to establish their transmissibility.

3. What is the severity of BA.4 and BA.5 variants?

These variations caused minor symptoms in the cases reported in South Africa. Those that contracted the variation, on the other hand, were all completely vaccinated. The unknown is how the variation reacts in people who haven't been immunized. According to experts, the variants are believed to be less severe, but individuals must follow Covid guidelines until further information is obtained.

4. How many BA.4 and BA.5 cases have been documented to date?

According to WHO, just a few dozen instances of BA.4 and BA.5 have been reported to the worldwide GISAID database so far. According to the UK's Health Security Agency, BA.4 was discovered in South Africa, Denmark, Botswana, Scotland, and England from January 10 to March 30.

5. How to protect yourself from these variations:

Put on a face mask that covers your mouth and nose.

Keep a physical gap of at least 1 meter between yourself and others.

Avoid crowded or poorly ventilated areas at all costs.

Increase the amount of fresh air in your home by opening windows.

Hands should be washed with soap regularly, and sanitizer should be used when hands are not washed.

Get immunized, and if you haven't already, get both vaccines. If you are eligible, you should have a booster shot.