B.1.1.529

B.1.1.529, also known as the Omicron variant, is a version of the COVID-19 virus characterized by many mutations. These changes can affect how the virus spreads and how well vaccines or previous infections protect against it. Omicron was first identified in late 2021 and has since become a concern due to its high number of mutations, which may make it more transmissible and potentially enable it to partially evade immune responses. Public health measures, including vaccination and boosters, remain important tools to reduce its impact and limit its spread.