Omicron spreads faster than the Alpha and Delta variants

Cyprus International University (CIU) Faculty of Pharmacy Vice Dean and Molecular Microbiologist Assist. Prof. Dr. Ender Volkan, advised that the new Omicron variant of COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, is rapidly becoming the most dominant variant in the world.

Explaining that the variant in question has been ranked as a ‘Variant of Concern’ by the World Health Organization (WHO), Çınar went on to say, “The Omicron variant is increasing the case numbers much quicker than the Alpha and Delta variants that have been dominant in both the world and our country”.

Explaining a laboratory study that was conducted in Hong Kong, Assist. Prof. Dr. Çınar expressed that according to this study, it was concluded that within 24-hours, the Omicron variant multiplied in the bronchial tissue 70 times faster than the Delta variant.

Çınar advised that studies as to whether the Omicron variant is heavier or lighter in comparison to previous variants are still continuing, and noted that the Omicron variant causing deaths is known.

Referring to a preliminary study conducted upon the British mobile phone application ZOE COVID, Assist. Prof. Dr. Çınar stated that within this country where the Omicron variant is dominant, the 5 most reported symptoms are recorded as a runny nose, headache, sneezing, fatigue, and sore throat.

Drawing attention to the fact that these reported mild symptoms may be due to the vaccine profile in England or the fact that the application users are young people, Çınar elaborated, "Still, due to the fact that the Omicron infection can be easily confused with the common cold, it is important for people to be careful in taking their routine tests”.

Stating that this disease, which can be asymptomatic or like a simple flu to some people, can be fatal to others, Çınar added that it is important to pay attention to the protection methods we have known since the beginning of the epidemic.

Informing that as with all the SARS-CoV-2 variants, vaccination is one of the most powerful weapons against Omicron, Çınar added to his statement that in order for the vaccine protection to be at a level that is effective, it is necessary to complete the reminder doses.