The emergence of a new COVID-19 variant B.1.1.529, widely known as Omicron, has caused concern for many people; even more so with the end-of-year holiday so near. What can we do to protect ourselves and the people around us from this new variant? Read on the following information we have gathered from reliable sources regarding the Omicron variant and what it entails!
What is the Omicron Variant?
Omicron is a newly identified COVID-19 strain, which was first found in South Africa. This variant has caused a spike in their population, leading researchers and scientists to believe that it is potentially more transmissible. On 26 November 2021, WHO has designated the Omicron variant as one of the Variants of Concern (VOCs).
There is still a lot of uncertainty about the Omicron strain and a lot of studies are being conducted to further determine its transmissibility, severity, risk of reinfection, and the effectiveness of current vaccines against it. In the meantime, WHO recommends countries and each individual to undertake pre-emptive actions to prevent an increase of cases caused by this new variant.
Read also: What You Need to Know about Australian Consumer Behaviours during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Is the Omicron Variant More Severe and Contagious than the Other Variants of COVID-19?
As had been mentioned, there are still a lot of unanswered questions about Omicron, including its severity and transmissibility. Here is what the experts know so far:
- Severity
Early evidence suggests that the Omicron strain is less severe than the Delta strain; however, more research is needed to confirm it. There is one thing we should keep in mind: The Omicron strain should not be dismissed as “mild”, as WHO has suggested.
- Transmissibility
Based on the available data, Omicron is spreading at a faster rate compared to the other variants, including the Delta strain. WHO believes that Omicron will likely outpace the Delta variant.
Are the current COVID-19 vaccines effective against the Omicron variant?
There is still limited information regarding how Omicron behaves in individuals who have been vaccinated and individuals who have recovered from other variants of COVID-19. Regardless, everybody should get their doses of vaccines. To tell the truth, it is the low vaccination rates that leave us susceptible to the emergence of new variants.
What can We Do to Prevent Omicron Getting Out of Control?
WHO suggests that individuals can take these steps to effectively reduce the spread of the COVID-19 virus, including the Omicron strain:
— Keep a physical distance of at least 1 meter from others.
— Wear a well-fitting mask.
— Open windows to improve ventilation.
— Avoid poorly ventilated or crowded spaces.
— Cough or sneeze into a bent elbow or tissue.
— Keep hands clean.
— Get vaccinated when it is your turn.
Furthermore, businesses can also contribute to keeping their customers safe ─ especially during the holiday season ─ by implementing a virtual queue system. The virtual queue is an excellent alternative to the conventional physical queues. It promotes social distancing and touchless check-in; two of the most important health and safety measures during the pandemic.
Read also: Haven’t Got Your Dose of COVID Vaccine Yet? Now is the Time!
SMARTQUEUE® from Business Smart Solutions is a queue management system that offers virtual queue as one of its Omni-Channel Service Delivery. In addition to the benefits that come with the virtual queue, SMARTQUEUE® itself has plenty of advantageous features that will help your business thrive.
To know more about SMARTQUEUE® and other solutions that we offer, reach us at info@bss.com.au.
