Recent reports have found that three different sub-variants of the omicron variant have emerged and could create trouble if not handled properly.
Dr. Michael Osterholm joined News Talk 830 WCCO's Vineeta Sawkar to discuss what exactly is going on with the variants and the recent "viral blizzard."
In Minnesota, Osterholm shared that the Twin Cities are now on the back end of the recent surge, with greater Minnesota hitting its peak or just about to hit it this week.
While this would normally be good news, Osterholm is cautious of the new sub-variants emerging recently — BA.1, BA.2, and BA.3.
Osterholm shared that BA.2 is taking off in certain parts of the world, and he thinks it is likely more infectious than the original strain of omicron.
BA. 2 has been nicknamed "stealth omicron" for a trait it has that allows it to avoid detection when trying to identify the strain.
Research on the subvariant does not show that it is more dangerous in the sense that it causes more severe illness, but it is believed to be more infectious.
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As for what this means for the current "viral blizzard?" Osterholm explained.
"We're gonna see likely more transmission where this happens to exist, and I think [BA.2] will become the main variant around the world," Osterholm said.
However, this is not as bad as it sounds, as the epidemiologist explained that we should still see surges come down from their peaks, but it may take longer for the tails to drop off to pre-omicron levels.
Osterholm mentioned the need for those who are unvaccinated or boosted to get their shots, as he said doing so is the best way to protect yourself from the virus.
He acknowledged that breakthrough infections are still occurring, however, the chance of hospitalization and death is far lower among those who have taken the precaution of getting vaccinated.
"In our hospitals, the vast majority of people, by far, who are seriously ill are people who are unvaccinated, so I can't emphasize that enough," Osterholm said, adding that it is a "life-saving event."
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