“Variant omicron, classified by the World Health Organization as a variant of concern, has a large number of mutations in the S-protein gene,” TASS said.
It is noted that a number of mutations of the new variant "have been shown to play a role in evading the immune response."
“Thus, the new option really raises serious concerns and requires immediate and comprehensive study,” added Vector.
On November 25, it became known that scientists have identified a new strain of coronavirus in Botswana, South Africa and Hong Kong, which could potentially become the most dangerous.
Later it was designated by the Greek letter "omicron".
The World Health Organization reported that existing PCR tests are capable of recognizing a new variant of the omicron coronavirus.