Authorities scramble to assess risk of Omicron variant

For our free coronavirus pandemic coverage, learn more here.

The World Health Organisation on Friday labelled the new coronavirus strain Omicron a “variant of concern”.

Australia’s national cabinet will meet this week to discuss the nation’s response, which could include extending quarantine for arrivals.

While the variant has sparked concern among a world fatigued by COVID-19, scientists and leading medical officials are saying it’s too soon to know how dangerous the variant is.

Early indications are that the disease may be causing mild to moderate illness in vaccinated people.

Federal health reporter Rachel Clun joins Bianca Hall to discuss Australia’s response to the threat posed by Omicron and how the new strain’s emergence highlights the urgency of vaccinating developing countries.

Our supporters power our newsrooms and are critical for the sustainability of news coverage.

Becoming a subscriber also gets you exclusive behind-the-scenes content and invitations to special events. Click on the links to subscribe to The Sydney Morning Herald or The Age.

Most Viewed in National

Source: Read Full Article