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Omicron: As BA.2 gains ground, experts explain if there is a need to worry

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Omicron: As BA.2 gains ground, experts explain if there is a need to worry

A new sub-strain of a novel coronavirus Omicron variant has spread rapidly around the world and has emerged as the latest challenge to tame Covid-19. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the BA.2 substrain has been detected in at least 57 countries. A leading healthcare expert says people need to be cautious.

Meanwhile, Dr Wen said Omicron will not be the last variant of the coronavirus.

“Almost certainly not. New variants are emerging all the time, because that’s what viruses do: they mutate as they replicate,” she said, adding: “That’s why real-time monitoring is so important, and that’s why vaccination is the key reason.”

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How transmissible is BA.2?

According to available data from governments, especially in hardest-hit Europe, the BA.2 substrain has made progress in recent months. In Denmark, for example, people infected with BA.2 transmitted the virus to an average of 39% of susceptible family members, compared with 29% for the original omicron variant. This is in line with preliminary data from the UK.

But is BA.2 more dangerous than previous strains?

Not according to the World Health Organization. Based on evidence from Denmark, the World Health Organization said this week that BA.2 did not appear to be more severe than the original Omicron variant, and that its spread did not lead to an unexpected spike in hospitalizations.

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This is also reflected in the changes recently announced by the Danish government when Covid-19 restrictions ended. The Danish government says the disease is no longer a threat to society, even as cases hit a record high.

Is the vaccine effective against the BA.2 subvariant?

The latest data from Europe suggest that the existing vaccine is as effective against BA.2 as against the previous subvariant. Although BA.2 is more contagious, the vaccine blocked 13% of cases 25 weeks after a second dose of the vaccine, a British study showed.

Two weeks after the booster dose, that number increased to 70 percent.

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Difference between BA.2 and BA.1

BA.2 has 40 different mutations compared to the original substrain, including key alterations in the spike region, the researchers said.

While the two are related, there are enough differences to drive behavioral change. The milder form of most Omicron cases in vaccinated populations may leave those who recover remain vulnerable to existing viruses and future variants, the researchers said.

They further stated that BA.2 will prolong the Covid-19 wave dominated by Omicron. A likely slower decline in cases could lead to higher hospitalizations and pose problems for countries with low vaccination rates.

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It will “create longer tails of the Omicron loop,” says computational biologist Trevor Bedford, who works at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center.

Complete News Source : Hindustan Times

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US vice president JD Vance, wife Usha and kids visit Jaipur’s iconic Amber Fort | Pics

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US vice president JD Vance, wife Usha and kids visit Jaipur’s iconic Amber Fort | Pics

US Vice President JD Vance, his wife Usha Vance, and their children visited the historical Amer Fort in Jaipur on April 22, 2025. The Vance family received a warm welcome at the Fort, where they were greeted with a traditional Rajasthani dance performance and elegantly decorated elephants. Second Lady Usha Vance, the wife of US vice president JD Vance, carries her daughter Mirabel as they watch a cultural performance at the Amber Fort in Jaipur.

Rajasthan CM Bhajanlal Sharma welcomed the Vance family as they visited the historic Amer Fort in Jaipur. The Vance family will depart for the US early Thursday morning. In related news, JD Vance and wife Usha attended Good Friday service at St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. Vance also visited the Taj Mahal in Agra on April 23, 2025. Vance said that “good progress.

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In other news, Pope Francis’ funeral is set to start on Wednesday, and the J&K tourist hub has been completely shut today. On 4/20, celebrations across the US highlight cannabis culture and calls for legalization had been made towards a trade deal with India after meeting with “tough negotiator” Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. The Vance family visited.

On April 22, 2025, US Vice President JD Vance, accompanied by his wife Usha Vance, and their three children, visited Jaipur’s historic Amber Fort. The family received a warm welcome, highlighted by traditional Rajasthani folk performances and a red carpet reception. As they entered the fort’s main courtyard, Jaleb Chowk, they were greeted by two elegantly decorated elephants named Chanda and Mala, raising their trunks in greeting. ​

During their visit, the Vances were joined by Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma and Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari, who guided them through the fort’s rich history and architectural marvels. The family also enjoyed cultural performances featuring traditional dances such as Kacchi Ghodi, Ghoomar, and Kalbeliya, offering a glimpse into the vibrant.

Usha Vance, dressed in a chic white shirt and patterned skirt, explored the fort alongside her family and dignitaries, embracing the cultural experience culture of Rajasthan This visit was part of Vice President Vance’s four-day official trip to India, aimed at strengthening bilateral relations between the United States and India. The Vance family departed for Washington.

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Bhajanlal Sharma welcomed the Vance family as they visited the historic Amer from Jaipur on April 24, concluding their cultural tour of India Upon their arrival at Amber Fort, the Vance family was greeted with traditional Rajasthani hospitality. Two elegantly decorated elephants, Chanda and Pushpa, adorned with silver ornaments, were stationed at the entrance welcome.

The family was also treated to a cultural performance featuring folk artists dressed in traditional Rajputi and Kalbelia attire, accompanied by musicians playing regional instruments. The vibrant rangolis and the overall festive atmosphere highlighted the rich cultural tapestry of Rajasthan The fort’s impressive courtyards and majestic structures.

Exploring the Fort’s Historical Significance

During their tour of Amber Fort, the Vance family explored various architectural marvels, including the Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace), known for its intricate mirror work and stunning design. They were accompanied by Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma and Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari, who provided insights into the fort’s history and significance.​

Engaging with Local Culture

Throughout their visit, Vice President Vance demonstrated a keen interest in engaging with The Vance family’s visit to Amber Fort was part local culture. He interacted with the folk artists and expressed appreciation for the traditional performances, reflecting a genuine curiosity and respect for India’s diverse cultural heritage.​

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