News Release

Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2 imposes a new challenge for global public health

Peer-Reviewed Publication

Compuscript Ltd

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bsheal.2022.01.002

Since its first emergence, the Omicron variant of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has evoked another wave of infection and caused global concern. Moreover, although data is still limited, Omicron shows highly concerning characteristics, including higher transmissibility, extensive immune escape and potentially altered host range. The authors of this article interpret these characteristics based on currently available data, outlining areas for further consideration and more comprehensive investigation.

Keywords: SARS-CoV-2, Omicron strain, Immune escape, Interspecies transmission

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Biosafety and Health is sponsored by the Chinese Medical Association, managed by National Institute for Viral Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (China CDC).

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CiteScore: 5.5

ISSN 2590-0536

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Article reference: Zepeng Xu, Kefang Liu, George F. Gao, Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2 imposes a new challenge for the global public health, Biosafety and Health, 2022, ISSN 2590-0536, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bsheal.2022.01.002


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