The extreme acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) epidemic in southern Africa has been characterised by three distinct waves. The first was related to a combination of SARS-CoV-2 lineages, while the second and third waves have been pushed by the Beta and Delta variants, respectively1–3. In November 2021, genomic surveillance groups in South Africa and Botswana detected a brand new SARS-CoV-2 variant related to a speedy resurgence of infections in Gauteng Province, South Africa. Within three days of the first genome being uploaded, it was designated a variant of concern (Omicron) by the World Health Organization and, inside three weeks, had been recognized in 87 nations. The Omicron variant is outstanding for carrying over 30 mutations in the spike glycoprotein, predicted to affect antibody neutralization and spike operate4. Here, we describe the genomic profile and early transmission dynamics of Omicron, highlighting the speedy unfold in areas with excessive ranges of inhabitants immunity.
