According to recent reports, the new BA.2 COVID-19 variant (a subvariant of the omicron variant called BA.1.) spreads more easily than the original omicron. Early data suggest that BA.2 is about 30% more transmissible than the original variant.
The new BA.2 variant can also manifest different symptoms than the original strains. New symptoms include:
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
The symptoms come along with those reported by omicron patients such as sneezing, coughing and sore throat, along with other cold-like symptoms.
In Denmark, BA.2 now accounts for 45% of the country’s COVID-19 cases, which is up from 20% the week before, according to national surveillance data. Experts say that level of transmissibility could lead this variant to become dominant in the U.S. as well.
Omicron variant can reinfect people
In the U.S., BA.2 caused about 4% of COVID cases for the week ending Feb. 19.
While getting BA.2 after infection from the original omicron strain is possible, research indicates an earlier omicron infection seems to provide strong protection.
As WHO continues to closely monitor variances, as well as conduct independent and comparative analyses of the different Omicron sublineages Verséa Holdings will continue to provide the best available SARS -CoV-2 diagnostics tests. To see all available tests, please visit: CliaSupply