The SARS-CoV-2 omicron variant of concern: characteristics, potential impacts and prevention

Abstract

The 2019 Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) has posed a significant danger to worldwide public health. A novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variant, B.1.1.529, was recently discovered in South Africa, causing a dramatic surge in COVID-19 patients. The World Health Organization identified B.1.1.529, known as Omicron, as a variant under monitoring (VUM) on November 24, 2021 (WHO). The Omicron variant was pronounced a variant of concern two days later (VOC). This variant contains a large number of mutations, including 15 in the spike's receptor-binding domain (RBD). The Omicron version also has multiple alterations in common with the preceding VOC Alpha, Beta, and Gamma variants, which sparked widespread worry regarding viral transmissibility, pathogenicity, and immune evasion. We reviewed the finding and features of the Omicron variation, compared the spike mutations in the five VOCs, and discussed potential prevention and mitigation techniques.