Covid-19: Could the Omicron variant cause milder illness?

Coronavirus Mutation 2

There are other theories that the variant evolved from an animal host. (Representative image) The coronavirus’ Omicron variant that has now been detected in over 30 countries has prompted fears it could significantly undermine the effectiveness of Covid-19 vaccines. Yet, amid a race to understand the consequences of the variant, some scientists are also looking … Read more

Covid-19: Botswana scientist who sequenced Omicron variant worried by pace of mutation

Coronavirus Mutation 1

Looking at the previous lineages — the Alpha, the Beta — the mutations accumulated over time, Moyo said. (Representative image) The pace at which the coronavirus’ Omicron variant accumulated its unusual pattern of mutations is cause for concern, Sikhulile Moyo, the scientist who detected the new strain, said. The speed of the mutations also raises … Read more