New Delhi, Nov 28, : , Dr.Samiran Panda, head of Epidemiology & Infectious Diseases division of Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), expressed hope on Sunday that the Covid vaccine might be effective against the Omicron variant of lethal virus.Dr.Panda stated that while we are optimistic that India’s vaccine will be effective against the new variant, it will take time for us to know how much,” IANS.
When asked about the new variant’s challenges for India, the ICMR scientist stated that “it poses equal challenges across all the globe but we must take extra precautions in light of this variant.”
He stated that scientists have not yet observed structural changes.”But, more studies are needed to confirm that this variant is more deadly than the other Covid variants.”
He said that it would take more time to determine if the variant is being transmitted’really quickly’ or causing clusters.
He also stressed that anyone who has not received the second dose of vaccine should get it and follow the Covid guidelines.
Following the Technical Advisory Group meetings, the World Health Organization (WHO), has designated the new Covid variant found in South Africa as the ‘Variant of Concern — VOC.
“Based on evidence that suggests a harmful change in Covid-19 epidemiology,” the TAG-VE advised WHO that this variant should become a Variant Of Concern.The WHO has now designated B.1.1.529 a VOC, called Omicron.”
According to the WHO, this variant is prone to a number of mutations.Some of these are serious.Preliminary evidence suggests that this variant is more likely to cause re-infection than other VOCs.
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