Omicron variant raises global concerns: Increased hospitalization and India's vaccination advantage

Abstract

The newly identified COVID-19 variant, B.1.1.529, initially detected in South Africa, was officially designated as the “Omicron” variant by the World Health Organization on November 26, 2021. This variant has raised concerns globally. From January 17 to November 26, 2021, Public Health Ontario (PHO) Library Services conducted extensive searches of published literature and preprints using the MEDLINE database. A total of six articles and one ongoing clinical trial were identified. Data from 15 published and unpublished reports, including interim findings, were collected. The WHO, ICMR, daily updates web page, internet sources, news, and hospitalization or death data were analyzed to assess the risk associated with the Omicron variant compared to non-hospitalized COVID-19 patients. The data suggested a potential 50% increase in the risk of hospitalization or death among Omicron patients compared to previous variants. Considering the emergence of the Omicron variant, it is important to note that India has an advantage due to its extensive immunization program, which annually vaccinates approximately 2.7 crorenewborns. However, it is crucial to ensure that vaccines meet all validation requirements and regulatory frameworks before they are made available to the public.