Omicron Virus Infection Appears Mild And Locally Transferred

The South African doctor who initially identified the SARS-CoV-2 virus variant known as Omicron says her patients have had "extremely mild symptoms."

However, Dr. Angelique Coetzee said in an interview on November 28, 2021, 'more time is needed before we know the seriousness of this new virus variant.'

Watch Dr. Coetzee tell the BBC's Andrew Marr how patients in South Africa have told her they've been feeling.

And today, Public Health Scotland confirmed six cases of the Omicron variant had been identified; four cases in the Lanarkshire area and two in the Greater Glasgow and Clyde area.

Furthermore, some of those affected in Scotland have no travel history, indicating community transmission of the variant.

Health Secretary Humza Yousaf said in a press statement, "This will be a worrying time for the six people now identified as having the new variant."

"If you have symptoms, self-isolate and take a test, and if contacted by Test and Protect or public health teams, please co-operate and follow their advice."

"All close contacts of suspected Omicron cases will be advised to self-isolate for ten days, regardless of their vaccination status."

"This will help establish the origin of the virus and any further individuals they have come into contact with in recent weeks.'