Omicron Threat: AIIMS Chief Says, “Be Prepared For Any Eventuality”

In view of rising COVID-19 cases, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Chief, Dr Randeep Guleria said, “Be prepared for any eventuality.” The Omicron variant is spreading rapidly in India. More than 150 cases of Omicron variant have been reported in India so far.

On Sunday while talking to ANI, he said, “We should prepare and hope that things are not as bad as in the United Kingdom. We need more data on Omicron.” Drawing parallels with the UK COVID-19 emergency, he appealed to people to abide by the COVID-19 norms. He also appealed to avoid unnecessary travel and gatherings. He said India need to monitor the Omicron variant closely and be prepared for any eventuality.

 Reportedly, 19 districts are at high risk of a surge in COVID-19 cases. The maximum number of Omicron variants are reported in Maharashtra. Earlier, while addressing a press conference, Joint Secretary of Health Ministry, Lav Agarwal said, “It’s likely Omicron will outpace Delta variant in India.”

Omicron variant in the United Kingdom

According to the UK Health Security Agency, the United Kingdom reported a surge in cases of the Omicron coronavirus variant on Saturday. According to Zee News, the UK reported 82,886 new coronavirus cases. The UK also reported further 45 coronavirus-related deaths.

Reportedly, the Omicron covid variant is much deadlier than other variants of Covid-19. It is also spreading faster than the Delta variant. People who are vaccinated are also getting infected by the new variant.

Several countries have already imposed new travel restrictions on passengers travelling from ‘high-risk’ countries. The new variant was first reported from South Africa on November 25. Subsequently, the World Health Organisation (WHO) designated the new variant as a ‘variant of concern’ on November 26. The two cases of the Omicron variant of the coronavirus were first detected in Karnataka on December 2.