Update on omicron variant: What we know so far

The new omicron variant of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) that emerged in South Africa in November 2021 has been declared as a Variant of Concern by the World Health Organization. This variant has been found to carry multifold mutations that have not been observed in any of the variants detected so far. The majority of these mutations are present in spike protein, contributing to its ability to escape the currently available neutralizing antibodies and vaccines, as well as increasing the chances of reinfection. This brief communication provides an insight into mutations detected in the omicron variant and their impact on currently available interventions against SARS-CoV-2 and the need for a booster dose. We also discuss the severity status of infection due to this variant. Additionally, we highlight the hypothesis supporting the association of high HIV prevalence and the appearance of the omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2 in immune-compromised individuals.

Automated summary

The omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2 is a concerning variant that carries multiple mutations, particularly in the spike protein, which enables it to evade neutralizing antibodies and vaccines. This variant has the potential to impact current interventions against COVID-19 and has been associated with immune-compromised individuals and HIV prevalence.