Fact Check: Navigating the COVID-19 Omicron Variant - Myths, Realities, and Ongoing Research
Mostly False
As of December 5, 2021, there is no credible information on the increased severity of the Omicron variant. Researchers and the World Health Organization (WHO) are conducting further testing to better understand the variant.
On November 26, 2021, the World Health Organization (WHO) designated variant B.1.1.529, otherwise known as the COVID-19 Omicron Variant, a variant of concern (VOC) based on several mutations that could potentially affect how the variant behaves. Since then, many countries around the world have imposed travel bans and other restrictions to curb future waves of COVID-19. Messages with false or misleading information have gone viral on platforms like WhatsApp, causing panic and further anxiety about the pandemic.
Scientists from South Africa and Botswana first identified the new variant earlier in November, and officially reported the findings to WHO on November 24th. Since then, several other countries have reported cases of the variant, and South Africa reported a jump from 2% to 9% of positive COVID-19 cases. However, WHO notes that as of November 28, 2021, it is unclear whether the Omicron variant is fueling the surge in cases or there are other factors affecting the surge (South Africa currently only has 36% of adults fully vaccinated).
The widely used PCR tests are still able to detect infection from the Omicron variant, although studies are being conducted to determine how Omicron affects the accuracy of other tests, such as rapid antigen testing. South African scientists and experts also noted that most cases have been mild, and vaccines should still offer protection against severe effects. Symptoms have also been more mild and similar to previous strains, although it is still too early to determine how cases will evolve. Corticosteroids and IL6 Receptor Blockers still work at treating severe COVID-19 symptoms. As of December 4, 2021, there have been no deaths related to the Omicron variant and most vaccinated adults in the US have shown mild symptoms.
To reduce the spread of COVID-19, the WHO still recommends the following:
vaccination
keeping a physical distance of at least 1 meter (3 feet) from others;
wearing a well-fitting face mask;
opening windows to improve ventilation;
avoiding poorly ventilated or crowded spaces;
frequent hand-washing;
coughing or sneezing into a bent elbow or tissue;
The best way to prevent COVID-19 is robust vaccination, masking, and testing efforts. If you suspect you were exposed to COVID-19 or develop symptoms such as a fever or cough, talk to your doctor and get tested. Booster shots are also highly recommended for all adults 18+ in the US.
Until scientists have had more time to conduct thorough research, the claim that the Omicron variant is more deadly is Mostly False.
Got false information you want to share with us or something to fact-check?
References and Further Reading:
S'thembile Cele. Bloomberg. Omicron Variant Symptom: New Covid Strain More Transmissible, South Africa Says. 29 November 2021.
Jason Gale, Lisa Du. Bloomberg. Likely Greek Letter for New Covid Variant, What to Know About the Mutation. 25 November 2021.
Spencer Kimball. CNBC. Covid news: What we know about US omicron cases. 04 December 2021.
Daniel Politi. Slate. Omicron makes COVID reinfection more likely amid hints variant may skirt vaccine protection. 04 December 2021.
Loni Prinsloo, Jason Gale. Time Magazine. Omicron May Fuel Surges, WHO Warns Amid Transmission Concern. 29 November 2021.
World Health Organization. Update on Omicron. 28 November 2021.
