WHO Omicron update: what we know and what we don't

The World Health Organisation has this morning released an update on what we know and don't know about Omicron.

Scientists are urgently trying to learn more about the B.1.1.529 strain of coronavirus which has already spurred international travel bans.

Transmissibility

It is not yet clear whether Omicron is more transmissible compared to other variants, including Delta, according to WHO.

It could be, but it is too early to say.

The number of people testing positive has risen in parts of South Africa, but studies are underway to understand if it is because of Omicron or other factors.

Explainer: Everything we know about Omicron

Severity of disease

It's too soon to know if Omicron will make us sicker than other variants.

There have been reports of increased hospitalisations in South Africa, but WHO said "this may be due to increasing overall numbers of people becoming infected, rather than a result of specific infection with Omicron."

Omicron variant: How Australia's states and territories are responding

Effectiveness of vaccines

You guessed it, too soon to know.

What is important is that WHO is coordinating with a large number of researchers around the world to better understand Omicron.

Studies already underway or about to begin include assessments of transmissibility, severity of infection, performance of vaccines and diagnostic tests, and effectiveness of treatments.

What if I have already had COVID?

According to WHO, "preliminary evidence" suggests people who have previously had COVID-19 could become reinfected more easily with Omicron.

Again, work is underway to confirm if this is correct.

Will regular COVID-19 tests detect Omicron?

Yes, widely used PCR tests will continue to detect infection.

And treatments?

Corticosteroids and IL6 Receptor Blockers will still be effective for managing patients with severe COVID-19, WHO said.

But studies will investigate if other drugs can better treat Omicron.

What is WHO recommending Australia does now?

Nothing different, at present.

We have been urged to keep vaccinating, and to monitor Omicron cases and report and share data.

READ MORE: Vaccine inequity and hesitancy made the Omicron variant more likely, scientists say