NBC News: As original omicron disappears, these are the BA.2 sub-variant’s key differences

The new more transmissible sub-variant, BA.2 currently accounts for approximately three-quarters of U.S cases. Not only that. But BA.2 seems to have given rise to its own sub-lineage, BA.2.12.1, which is likely to be contributing to the rise in case numbers in some states. The differences in symptoms between the variants are quite subtle with the most frequent ones being a runny nose and fatigue. There seems to be less incidence of people losing their sense of taste and smell. The sub-variants can pose a potential obstacle to the effectiveness of monoclonal antibody treatments, which have been used in individuals whose weekend immune system does not produce enough antibodies after vaccination and those susceptible to severe allergic reactions to the vaccine. As we transition into more relaxed COVID-19 measures, it is still important to remain cognizant of the fact that the virus has not been eradicated and still remains an active public health threat. Read the full article here