MORE than half of the first 22 cases of the Omicron variant of Covid in the UK involved people who were fully vaccinated, the Health Security Agency (HSA) has confirmed.
The latest analysis shows from the total number of these cases confirmed in England by November 30, 12 were more than 14 days after receiving at least two doses of vaccine. Two cases were more than 28 days after receiving a first dose of a vaccine. Six were unvaccinated, while the remaining two had no available information. None of the people who tested positive for Omicron are known to have been hospitalised.
But “most of the cases have a specimen date that is very recent and that there is a lag between onset of infection and hospitalisation and death”, according to the HSA.
UK health officials have confirmed they are investigating a sharp rise in the number of Covid test results that have a trait associated with the newly-identified Omicron variant.
One of its mutations produces S-gene target failure (SGTF) in about half the PCR tests in use throughout the country.null
This allows the variant to be distinguished from the Delta variant and provides insight over the spread of Omicron before full genomic sequencing occurs.
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Rod Stewart: Only triple-vaccinated guests will be invited to my Christmas party
The musician, 76, has received three Covid-19 jabs and admits those who turn down the chance of a vaccine make him ‘angry’.
He branded so-called ‘anti-vaxxers’ as ‘killers’ for not taking the vaccine as they are more likely to catch and spread the virus.
Sir Rod told Times Radio Drive host John Pienaar: ‘It makes me angry, especially in America where they talk about “It’s my right, it’s my freedom.”
‘No it’s not! Because you are a killer, and you can be killed.’
Despite the threat of the new Omicron variant, Sir Rod still plans on hosting a Christmas party – on the condition that everyone is fully vaccinated with three jabs, and tests negative for the virus.