Learning More About the Omicron COVID-19 Variant

The Omicron variant of COVID-19 has been detected in the US and is spreading. Scientists in South Africa have found that Omicron is at least three times more likely to cause reinfection than previous variants like Beta and Delta. This conclusion is based on a study of 2.8 million positive samples, with nearly 36,000 suspected reinfections. While Omicron's ability to evade immunity from prior infection is evident, the severity of the strain remains unknown and requires more time to assess.

What is the current status of the Omicron variant in the US?

• It has not yet reached the US.

• It is officially present and spreading across the states.

• It is only present in South Africa.

• It has been eradicated in the US.

How does the Omicron variant compare to previous variants in terms of reinfection likelihood?

• It has the same likelihood as previous variants.

• It is at least three times more likely to cause reinfections.

• It is less likely to cause reinfections.

• It is not associated with reinfections.

What did the South African study analyze to conclude about Omicron's reinfection rate?

• Travel history of patients

• 2.8 million positive coronavirus samples

• Hospitalization records

• Vaccination records

What is a significant characteristic of the Omicron variant according to researchers?

• It is resistant to all vaccines.

• It is less contagious than other variants.

• It has a substantial ability to evade immunity from prior infection.

• It causes more severe symptoms than other variants.

What is still unknown about the Omicron variant?

• Its impact on children

• The severity of the strain

• Its ability to spread

• Its origin