High alerts have been imposed in many countries regarding the risk of Omicron variant of Corona virus. The re-infection rate of this variant is high and is thus called as variant of concern right now. The cases of this variant are constantly increasing, and thus it could possibly be a fatal experience for third COVID wave surrounding the world. WHO is still very worried about this variant as this together with delta could collapse health systems around the world. Many studies have come forwards regarding need of booster dose, efficacy of vaccination and threat of omicron but still this variant has many mysteries left.
WHO Worried About Omicron, Delta Threat
Chief of WHO, raised his concerns about omicron being more transmissible than delta and circulating at a high pace which could be difficult to control. He said that this could lead to a tsunami of cases which could collapse health system of majority of countries omicron has affected so far. He was also worried that this may pile up the cases and put so much pressure on the health systems that hospitalisation would be difficult. Because of lack of hospitalisation and spike in cases fatalities could also happen.
WHO claimed that there has been a global rise of 11% in the cases of COVID-19 over the past week. US and France recorded high number of cases with United Kingdom not very far. Tedros Ghebeyesus, WHO chief also said that since omicron is more transmissible and delta more fatal, they could together prove to be nightmare for healthcare personals and bring everyone to a standstill again.
Also Read- Omicron COVID-19: 10 Guidelines By Govt. To Avoid Omicron Infection This Christmas Week
WHO on Fight Against COVID-19
According to the report, WHO reflected that fight against corona virus in 2021 hoped to end this chain of fatal virus in the year end. But it did not happen as expected, even the vaccine efficacy were questioned because of Omicron.
WHO wanted atleast 40% of population of every country to be fully vaccinated by the year end and 70% till mid of 2022. But WHO Chief Tedros announced that almost 92 countries of 194 members were going to miss this target which could turn into complications. With having both delta and omicron variant on the plate, it would be difficult to manage health situation in those countries in particular. Also since the rate of infection is so much more this time, healthcare workers and medical staff could also be hugely affected.
Hence he has asked people to get vaccinated and take a resolution to vaccinate their total population by 70% till mid of 2022 to fight this COVID-19 situation around the globe.
Also Read- Booster Dose Needs To Be Given After 8-10 Months Gap: KGMU Study
Picture Credits- shutterstock.com