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Is the omikron variant so contagious because it has “genetic c…


© Rob Engelaar

The omikron variant would likely have acquired at least one of its mutations by picking up genetic material from another virus that causes colds. That mutation would also be the reason that the virus can spread so quickly.

Laurence TorckSource: REUTERS

That genetic sequence does not appear in the earlier versions of the coronavirus, but it is ubiquitous in other viruses, including those that can cause a cold. And it would also be found in the human genome, by the way. According to Venky Soundararajan, co-founder of the company nference and who led the study, this particular sequence makes the omikron variant “more human”. And that would help evade an attack from the human immune system.

ALSO READ. Now that a mouth mask is also mandatory for children: where can I find a nice one? And how much does that cost? (+)

This would allow the virus to be transmitted more easily while causing only mild symptoms or people could even be asymptomatic very often. However, scientists are not yet sure whether omikron is really more contagious than the other variants and whether it will be able to catch up with delta.

According to previous studies, cells in the lungs and in the gastrointestinal tract can simultaneously contain Covid-19 and the common cold coronavirus. This could lead to a new mutation. The new mutation may have first appeared in a person infected with both pathogens where one version of Covid-19 picked up the genetic sequence of the other virus.

ALSO READ. Those who have already been infected seem more susceptible to omikron variant: “I am not a doomsayer, but when I see these figures…” (+)

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