Corona's new variant 'Omicron'

Corona's new variant 'Omicron'

Corona's new variant 'Omicron': Since the onset of the Corona epidemic, the contagious virus has been constantly changing its genetic makeup. Of these, the Delta variant left the world in the throes of a second epidemic. The world almost survived the catastrophe because of vaccinations, hygiene, and awareness-raising.

Little by little, people began to prepare for a normal life. But, suddenly, the world is in a new fear of an epidemic. Because a few days ago another new variant B.1.1.529 was identified in South Africa. The World Health Organization has already identified it as 'alarming' and named it Omicron.

Scientists say the new variant is even more contagious. At the same time, the immunity of the corona vaccines that are currently available may be exceeded. However, extensive research is still ongoing.

The World Health Organization (WHO) says patients with Omicron have a higher risk of hospitalization and death.

Experts call it 'super strain'. Its genes have more than 30 different mutations with the first identified coronavirus. Which is more than any variant identified so far and twice as much as Delta.

According to research so far, the vaccine's ability to resist omicron is 40 percent lower than any other type. Thirty-two mutations have been identified in the spike protein of this mutated coronavirus. Two of these spikes help to spread very fast and three of them play an easy role in penetrating the cells.

In addition, the cell wall of Omicron has a protein deficiency compared to other types. That is why it has got more infectious power.

It is thought that the coronavirus has evolved into a new variant of AIDS after being infected. Omicron spreads faster in South Africa among children and adolescents than adults. Omicron is being identified in 90 percent of newly infected patients in the country.

Apart from South Africa, this variant has been identified in Botswana, Hong Kong, Israel, the United Kingdom of Europe, and Belgium.

To address the situation, the United States, several European countries, Singapore, Malaysia, and India have already announced a halt to flights from African countries. Bangladesh is also walking that path. On Saturday, the health minister said Bangladesh was deciding to suspend contact with South Africa.

However, there is no substitute for complying with Corona's hygiene rules to stay safe from the new variant.