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Russian scientists have developed test to detect omicron COVID-19 strain

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Russian scientists have developed test to detect omicron COVID-19 strain


01.12.2021

Photo by V. Novikov. Press service of the Mayor and Government of Moscow / mos.ru (CC BY 4.0)

The test to determine the new omicron coronavirus strain  has been developed by specialists from the Central Research Institute of Epidemiology of Rospotrebnadzor, RIA Novosti reports

According to the head of the department Anna Popova, it took the scientists several days to develop a new test system, which makes it possible not only to confirm the diagnosis, but also to determine to what particular strain a coronavirus sample belongs to.

The COVID-19 B1.1.529 strain, called omicron, was first detected in Botswana and South Africa on November, 20. According to media reports, about 100 cases of infection have been since recorded in South Africa. The strain was found in Hong Kong, Great Britain, Germany, Australia, US and several other countries.

Experts believe that vaccinated people and those who have antibodies can still become infected with the omicron strain. A number of countries, including Russia, have imposed restrictions on air traffic with some African states.

A version of the Russian vaccine that can protect against the omicron strain will be developed within ten days, Alexander Gintsburg, head of the Gamaleya Center, promised. According to him, it will take about1,5 months to undergo licensing procedures.

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