An increasing number of evidence shows that the Omicron variant is more likely to infect the throat than the lungs, which scientists believe may explain why it appears to be more contagious but less deadly than other versions of the virus. Six studies - four published since the end of December - have found that Omicron does not damage human lungs as much as Delta and other previous Covid variants. Studies have not yet been reviewed by other scientists.
"The result of all the mutations that make Omicron different from previous variants is that it may have altered the ability to infect different types of cells," said Deenan Pillay, professor of virology at University College London. "Basically, it seems to be more capable of infecting the upper respiratory tract - the cells in the throat."
If the virus produces more cells in the throat, this makes it more transmissible, which may explain the rapid spread of Omicron. A virus that infects lung tissue, on the other hand, will be potentially more dangerous but less contagious.
"Early indications are that it is good news, but this is not a signal to take care away, because if you are clinically vulnerable - there is death from Omicron. "Not everyone can take off their masks and celebrate."
