Omicron data gives new hope
PEOPLE who catch Omicron are less likely to be hospitalised than with those with the Delta strain, Scots scientists have said.
The findings in the report by experts at Edinburgh and Strathclyde universities have been cautiously welcomed.
The study published yesterday said the risk of hospitalisation for those with Omicron is two-thirds lower than with Delta.
Dr Jim McMenamin, the national Covid incident director for Public Health Scotland, said it was a “qualified good-news story”.
He added: “The potentially serious impact of Omicron on a population cannot be underestimated.
“And a smaller proportion of a much greater number of cases that might ultimately require treatment can still mean a substantial number of people who may experience severe Covid infections that could lead to potential hospitalisation.”
Authors of the paper, which is yet to be peer reviewed, said if Omicron had been like Delta in Scotland, they would have seen around 47 people in hospital suffering from the virus but, so far, there are 15.
But Prof Mark Woolhouse, of the University of Edinburgh, said data is based on a small number of cases and didn’t reflect those most at risk, the over-65s.
Nicola Sturgeon said: “This is encouraging early data – hopefully confidence will build as we get more data.”
Jackie Baillie, Labour’s health spokeswoman, added: “The findings drive home the need for us to keep ramping up the booster and the early signs of reduced severity is very welcome.”