What Is Stealth Omicron?

Overview

The sub-variant of the highly infectious Omicron variant is commonly known as Stealth Omicron. It is also known as B.A.2 officially. As per the WHO, three variants of Omicron have been detected until now. The Stealth omicron has genetic mutations which make it more difficult to distinguish from other variants. Stealth omicron is more than 1.5 times more contagious than Omicron. It has five unique modifications on the crucial part of the spike protein of the virus. It also has almost 20 mutations set different from the original Omicron.

It has higher transmission potential, aggressiveness, and greater ability to evade the immune response. It is currently under investigation. The Stealth omicron was first reported in December 2021. It has spread in almost 40 countries, including the UK, US, Canada, Australia, Denmark, South Africa, India, and is likely to spread worldwide.

Symptoms Of Stealth Omicron:

The two most common symptoms of the Stealth omicron Variant are:

• Vertigo Or Dizziness
• Fatigue

The other symptoms of stealth omicron variant are almost identical to that of Omicron, which are:

• Runny nose
• Skin rashes
• Abdominal pain
• Night sweats
• Sneezing
• Scratchy or sore throat
• Mild muscle aches
• Congestion

Why Is Stealth Omicron Harder To Detect?

The original parent Omicron has genetic features that allow easy identification. It enables easy differentiation from the delta variant using a PCR test. It is called “S gene target failure”. However, the Stealth omicron variant is harder to detect with the PCR test. It does not possess the same "S gene target failure" found in Omicron. As a result, Stealth Omicron does not look like Omicron. It seems more like the delta variant on the test.

While the Stealth Omicron escapes the RT-PCR test, several tests effectively identify this variant as a coronavirus.

Is The Stealth Omicron Variant Dangerous?

As per the reports, Stealth omicron does not possess any serious threat to life. The vaccine is effective against the virus. Most patients do not have any severe symptoms. It does not increase hospitalization or death risk.

Differences Between Parent Omicron And Stealth Omicron

• Transmission: As per the reports, the stealth omicron spreads faster than Omicron. It is more transmissible than other variants. It may become the most dominant variant of the virus.
• Ability To Detect: The stealth omicron is more challenging to detect than parent Omicron through PCR test. It is due to "S gene target failure". A specific gene sequencing test is required for the detection of variants.
• Vaccinations: The COVID-19 vaccination provides less protection against the virus than Omicron. However, unvaccinated individuals are more vulnerable to the virus.
• Mutations: Stealth omicron has several mutations. It has 20 mutations in spike protein in comparison to its parent omicron. It also has additional genetic changes that are not found in the original version.

Precaution Measures Against Stealth Omicron

The precaution measures for stealth omicron are the same as initial COVID 19. You should get vaccinated. Vaccines provide protection against the disease. Follow the public guidelines such as:

• Always wear your mask
• Get a COVID-19 vaccine and COVID Booster dose
• Maintain a distance of 6 feet always with others
• Sanitize the hands
• Avoid crowded places and events.
• Test and Quarantine yourself if you see any symptoms.
• Wash your hands with soaps and water