With exceptionally high daily numbers of new COVID-19 cases from the Omicron variant worldwide, the World Health Organization reiterated today the need to adhere to all measures, including proper ventilation and avoiding prolonged stays in closed spaces, as these practices contribute to the transmission of the virus. The organization also disclosed a range of underlying factors and reasons for the spread of Omicron, including the mutations carried by the variant and increased social interaction.
**Attachment to Human Cells**
Maria Van Kerkhove, the head of the technical team at the WHO’s Health Emergencies Program, stated that Omicron spreads rapidly among people for several reasons, the first being the mutations that allow the variant to attach to human cells more easily. She also indicated, according to a statement distributed by the organization, that "immune escape," or the possibility of reinfection among those previously infected and vaccinated, is another factor. She added that there is "another reason, which is that we are witnessing an increase in Omicron replication in the upper respiratory tract, which distinguishes it from Delta and other COVID-19 variants."
**Closed Spaces**
However, she emphasized that, in addition to all these factors, the spread of the virus is also related to increased social mixing and spending more time in closed places during the winter in the Northern Hemisphere, as well as not adhering to preventive measures, such as physical distancing. She continued, saying, "The general public must focus on reducing their exposure to the virus and feel that they have some ability to control the infection." It is worth noting that the global organization announced approximately 9.5 million new COVID-19 cases reported last week, marking a record increase of 71% compared to the previous week.
