Experts Approach Omicron , With Cautious Optimism.<br />Experts Approach Omicron , With Cautious Optimism.<br />CNBC reports per the World Health Organization, <br />the Omicron variant is now known to have caused infections in 89 different countries.<br />CNBC reports per the World Health Organization, <br />the Omicron variant is now known to have caused infections in 89 different countries.<br />But experts say there is still hope amid the overarching fear of the COVID-19 pandemic.<br />Early data suggests the Omicron variant may not be any worse than previous variants <br />and may also be much milder.<br />In South Africa, officials say death <br />and hospitalizations aren't <br />keeping pace with infections. .<br />In South Africa, officials say death <br />and hospitalizations aren't <br />keeping pace with infections. .<br />A recent study from the University of Hong Kong found the new variant is highly infectious.<br />A recent study from the University of Hong Kong found the new variant is highly infectious.<br />Researchers have also found that an <br />Omicron infection in the lungs can <br />be significantly less severe.<br />Experts say the spread of the <br />Omicron variant could result in more severe variants of COVID-19 in the future.<br />The overall threat from <br />the Omicron variant is <br />likely to be very significant. , Dr. Michael Chan Chi-wai, Ph.D., The University of Hong Kong, via CNBC.<br />Research thus far suggests booster doses of the coronavirus vaccines offer ample protection against the Omicron variant.<br />If we get that third dose, the booster, it strengthens that outer line of defense and we are back to where we were maybe six months ago. , Benjamin Cowling, professor, School of Public Health <br />at the University of Hong Kong, via CNBC.<br />If we get that third dose, the booster, it strengthens that outer line of defense and we are back to where we were maybe six months ago. , Benjamin Cowling, professor, School of Public Health <br />at the University of Hong Kong, via CNBC
