Omicron: The ‘important numbers’ an immunovirology expert is watching closely

An immunovirology expert says reintroducing 14-day quarantine for overseas arrivals is “the right call until we get a better snapshot” of the new Omicron COVID-19 variant.

Associate Professor in the Immunovirology and Pathogenesis Program at the Kirby Institute, Dr Stuart Turville, says there are two “important numbers” to keep an eye on as the world learns more about the new strain — the number of vaccinated people being infected, and how many cases of severe disease are emerging.

“The key thing … is to look at disease severity,” he told Ross and Russel.

“Look at are how many people are becoming infected that are vaccinated.

“We don’t really know yet how well the vaccines are holding.”

Dr Turville is calling for the reintroduction of 14-day quarantine for international arrivals until more is known about Omicron.

“It gives us time to dissect the virus more while it’s not in the community,” he said.

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Omicron: The ‘important numbers’ an immunovirology expert is watching closely