update on the Omicron variant

In France, eight possible cases of the Omicron variant have been detected, according to the Ministry of Health. “None are confirmed, but it is only a matter of time, there is no reason for France to escape Omicron”, indicates the doctor and journalist Damien Mascret, present Monday, November 29 on the 12/13 plateau. It remains to be seen whether genetic mutations sightings on the virus will translate into local epidemics, such as observed in South Africa, or multiple epidemics, all over the world.

Among other concerns, that “to know if the transmission will be increased”, or “if the virulence is increased”, which would accelerate severe cases, explains Damien Mascret. To fight against Omicron, as for Delta, the scientific council recommends applying barrier gestures. PCR tests are still effective in detecting the virus. As for the vaccine, “we think that there will be a preserved efficiency, perhaps reduced, we are not sure, answer in two weeks”, concludes the doctor.