The head of epidemiological modelling at Monash University says the latest “son of Omicron” COVID-19 variant is no reason to panic.

And he says Victoria has “probably” spent too much time focusing on vaccinating children and not ensuring vulnerable groups are up-to-date with their boosters.

There were 9426 COVID-19 cases recorded in Victoria on Wednesday, up from 7381 the day before and 5941 on Monday.

But Associate Professor James Trauer says Victorians shouldn’t be alarmed by the spike.

“I think we do know, now, that it’s not going to cause the huge problems that Delta caused,” he said.

Associate Professor Trauer said it was important those aged over 70 were up-to-date with their vaccinations, heading into winter.

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