Officially referred to as B.1.1.529, the Omicron variant was discovered in Botswana, South Africa, and was named after the location where its first case was found. Omicron was declared as another threat by the World Health Organization (WHO), due to its transmissibility speed and potential pathogenicity. This variant can be described as more dangerous because of the fact that it includes more than 50 other variations, such as the older Alpha or Beta.
The latest variant of concern, Omicron, results from the Coronavirus19’s ability to adapt accordingly to vaccines and mutate into stronger types, such as Delta.
Researchers presumed another outbreak this 2022 when they started to learn more about the Omicron variant. Today, the said type has been spread to over 110 countries. Numerous changes to health protocols in different countries have been implemented upon discovering the Omicron variant as some places started to return to the normal, pre-pandemic state. There are times that quarantine isn’t necessarily required anymore, and travelers only need to take a rapid antigen test for safety measures.
Although the COVID-19 testing procedures vary from one country to the next, they all aim at the same goal: to reduce the increase in infection count, particularly under the Omicron variant. Omicron symptoms such as runny noses, sneezing, headache, sore throat, and fatigue may seem less severe than those of the older variants. However, this still poses a greater threat as it has neutralizing antibodies, that even those with boosters and vaccination shots can catch the variant if they are not careful.
For international travelers, the COVID test for USA and the likes are still required. However, some rules have already changed, such as the number of quarantine days and other specifications. Because of the new, improved rules, everyone should be aware of these changes so they can cooperate properly and avoid hassle during flights or boarding.
If you want to learn more about the COVID-19 testing amidst Omicron variant, you can read this infographic. For an affordable COVID-19 testing kit, contact the trusted and reliable Harley Medic International for official rapid tests. Get in touch through their website.
