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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.”

How transmissible is BA.2?

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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.

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.

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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.

Difference between BA.2 and BA.1

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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.

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

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Complete News Source : Hindustan Times

Hollywood

Review of the spy thriller “Heart of Stone”: Alia Bhatt shines.

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Review of the spy thriller “Heart of Stone”: Alia Bhatt shines.

In a realm where intrigue and suspense collide, Bollywood’s beloved star Alia Bhatt has once again proven her mettle in the enthralling spy thriller “Heart of Stone.” Directed by the visionary Raj Mehta, this cinematic marvel takes audiences on a roller-coaster ride through espionage, deception, and unrelenting action, with Bhatt’s luminous performance at its epicenter.

A Glimpse into the Plot

“Heart of Stone” delves into the shadowy world of espionage, where nothing is as it seems, and allegiances can crumble in an instant. Bhatt’s character, Maya Verma, is a compelling enigma—a resolute intelligence operative navigating a labyrinth of covert operations and intricate deceptions. As the layers of the narrative peel away, Maya finds herself ensnared in a high-stakes game where trust is elusive and danger lurks in every frame.

The Resplendent Alia Bhatt

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Alia Bhatt’s portrayal of Maya Verma is nothing short of a revelation. Known for her remarkable versatility, Bhatt imbues Maya with a potent mix of strength and vulnerability. With every expression, every gesture, she breathes life into a character that resonates on both emotional and cerebral levels. Bhatt’s artistry reaches its zenith as Maya grapples with inner demons while outwitting her adversaries—a captivating dance that only an actress of her caliber could orchestrate.

Raj Mehta’s Directorial Panache

Raj Mehta, celebrated for his directorial finesse, orchestrates the tapestry of “Heart of Stone” with masterful precision. Seamlessly weaving heart-thumping action sequences and labyrinthine plot twists, Mehta keeps the audience on the edge of their seats. His meticulous attention to detail manifests in every scene, painting a cinematic canvas that’s as thrilling as it is visually arresting.

Supporting Cast: A Tapestry of Brilliance

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The constellation of talent in “Heart of Stone” goes beyond Alia Bhatt. The ensemble cast, featuring Rajkummar Rao, Aditi Rao Hydari, and Vicky Kaushal, contributes to the film’s tapestry with their impeccable performances. The chemistry between the characters adds depth to the narrative, amplifying the emotional resonance and enriching the overall storytelling.

A Symphony of Cinematic Excellence

“Heart of Stone” is an embodiment of cinematic finesse. The film’s production values, from picturesque locations to evocative cinematography, envelop the viewer in a sensory feast. The musical score, composed with an acute understanding of the narrative’s ebbs and flows, elevates the tension and emotions, further ensnaring the audience in the movie’s spellbinding aura.

A Triumph of Genre Fusion

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Critics and audiences alike have bestowed “Heart of Stone” with effusive praise for its seamless fusion of espionage, action, and drama. The film’s ingenious plot twists, coupled with Alia Bhatt’s extraordinary performance, thrust it into the echelons of standout espionage thrillers. It’s a symphony of storytelling that resonates long after the credits roll.

In a year replete with cinematic treasures, “Heart of Stone” stands tall as an embodiment of brilliance. Alia Bhatt’s luminosity shines with unparalleled intensity, solidifying her place as one of Bollywood’s brightest stars. This cinematic tour de force is a must-watch, an experience that unearths the magic created when remarkable talent converges to craft an indelible cinematic journey.

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