Until a few days ago we believed Omicron was a triple star in the constellation of Perseus. And that it took its name from the 15th letter in the Greek alphabet. Well that is still true, although World Health Organization was swift in labeling the new COVID strain after that letter. Much science must flow through our computers before we know the full scientific truth. So today we investigate why we call Omicron variant B.1.1.529.
Much to Learn From That String of Numbers
The virus code B.1.1.529 may not roll of the tongue easily, according to Quartz magazine on November 26, 2021. However, it does represent the evolutionary history of the Omicron variant.
Biologists from Edinburgh, Oxford, and Cambridge came up with the Pango system in July 2020. That was after they realized they needed a way to organize the unruly mob of 35,000 sequences of COVID-19 variants.
This Is Why We Call Omicron Variant B.1.1.529
The first letter in the sequence tells us the virus root. ‘A’ corona viruses, for example have two key genetic molecules in the same spots in genetic code as two bat viruses. Those variants were first identified in Wuhan China on January 5, 2021.
However, the ‘B’ variant traces back to a different root first seen earlier in Wuhan on December 24, 2019. This has two different key genetic modules in its genetic code. From there on in, things become more complex as 35,000 sequences fan out.
We call the Omicron variant B.1.1.529 to identify where it belongs in the Pango model. However, we should caution against knee-jerk labeling Omicron a South African virus. That because South African scientists are suggesting it may have originated elsewhere. We shall have to wait while our scientists unpick where it truly belongs in the Pango system.
Breaking News
Russian Nasal Vaccine Seeks Export Markets
Advanced Gum Disease Boosts COVID Severity
Preview Image: Omicron Coronae Borealis B
