30/12/2021
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What we know about the Omicron variant
What is Omicron and what precautions should you take to protect your family?
UNICEF
Teachers wearing masks and a face-shield as part of COVID-19 prevention
UNICEF/UN0500155/Pastorelli
Available in:
English
Français
Español
العربية
17 December 2021
People around the world are concerned about the Omicron variant of COVID-19. We’ve gathered the latest expert information about this new variant and will continue to update this article as more information becomes available.
For more tips and information on COVID-19, see our COVID-19 guide for parents.
Last updated: 17 December 2021
Jump to:
What is the Omicron variant?
How did the Omicron variant develop?
Where is the Omicron variant present?
Is the Omicron variant more severe?
Is the Omicron variant more contagious?
Does the Omicron variant have different symptoms?
Vaccine effectiveness against the Omicron variant
Prior COVID-19 infection and the Omicron variant
Omicron variant and testing
Omicron variant and children
How to protect your family
How to talk to your child about Omicron
What is the Omicron variant?
The Omicron variant of COVID-19 has been called a variant of concern by WHO based on the evidence that it has several mutations that may have an impact on how it behaves. There is still substantial uncertainty regarding Omicron and a lot of research underway to evaluate its transmissibility, severity and reinfection risk.
How did the Omicron variant develop?
When a virus is circulating widely and causing numerous infections, the likelihood of the virus mutating increases. The more opportunities a virus has to spread, the more opportunities it has to undergo changes.
New variants like Omicron are a reminder that the COVID-19 pandemic is far from over. It is therefore essential that people get the vaccine when available to them and continue to follow existing advice on preventing the spread of the virus, including physical distancing, wearing masks, regular handwashing and keeping indoor areas well ventilated.
It is also crucial that vaccines and other public health measures are accessible everywhere. Vaccine inequity leaves lower income countries – many of them in Africa – at the mercy of COVID-19. Well-supplied countries must urgently deliver the doses they promised.
Where is the Omicron variant present?
The Omicron variant has now been detected in many countries around the world. WHO reports that Omicron is probably in most countries, even if it hasn’t been detected yet.
Is the Omicron variant more severe than other COVID-19 variants?
Early findings suggest that Omicron might be less severe than the Delta variant, but more data is needed and WHO warns that it should not be dismissed as “mild”. Studies are ongoing and this information will be updated as it becomes available.
It is important to remember that all variants of COVID-19 can cause severe disease or death, including the Delta variant that is still dominant worldwide, which is why preventing the spread of the virus and reducing your risk of exposure to the virus is so important.
> What you need to know about the Delta variant
Is the Omicron variant more contagious?
Omicron is spreading more quickly than other variants. Based on the information available, WHO believes it is likely that Omicron will outpace the Delta variant where there is COVID-19 transmission in the community.
However, being vaccinated and taking precautions such as avoiding crowded spaces, keeping your distance from others and wearing a mask are critical in helping to prevent the spread of COVID-19, and we know these actions have been effective against other variants.
> See other precautions you can take.
Does the Omicron variant cause different symptoms?
There is no information to suggest that Omicron causes different COVID-19 symptoms from other COVID-19 variants.
Are the COVID-19 vaccines effective against the Omicron variant?
Researchers are looking into any potential impact the Omicron variant has on the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines. Information is still limited, but there may be a small reduction in the effectiveness of vaccines against severe illness and death, and a decline in preventing mild disease and infection. However, WHO reports that so far it looks like the currently available vaccines offer significant protection against severe disease and death.
It is also important to be vaccinated to protect against the other widely circulating variants, such as the Delta one. When it’s your turn, make sure to get vaccinated. If your vaccination involves two doses, it’s important to receive both in order to have the maximum protection.
Read more about COVID-19 vaccines and explore what you need to know before, during and after getting vaccinated.
Is a prior COVID-19 infection effective against the Omicron variant?
WHO reports that early evidence suggests that previous infection could offer less protection against Omicron in comparison to other variants of concern, such as Delta. Information is still limited though and we will share updates as it becomes available.
You should get vaccinated even if you’ve previously had COVID-19. While people who recover from COVID-19 may develop some natural immunity to the virus, we do not yet know how long it lasts or how well you are protected. Vaccines offer more reliable protection.
Do current COVID-19 tests detect the Omicron variant?
The widely used PCR and antigen-based rapid diagnostic tests continue to detect infection of COVID-19, including Omicron.
Are children more likely to contract the Omicron variant?
Research is ongoing into Omicron’s transmissibility and we will update as more information becomes available. However, people who are mixing socially and those who are unvaccinated are more susceptible to contracting COVID-19.
How can I protect myself and my family against the Omicron variant?
The most important thing you can do is reduce your risk of exposure to the virus. To protect yourself and your loved ones, make sure to:
Wear a mask that covers your nose and mouth. Make sure that your hands are clean when you put on and remove your mask.
Keep a physical distance of at least 1 metre from others.
Avoid poorly ventilated or crowded spaces.
Open windows to improve ventilation indoors.
Wash your hands regularly.
When it’s your turn, get vaccinated. WHO-approved COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective.
Read mask tips for families.
How can I talk to my child about the Omicron and other COVID-19 variants?
News about COVID-19 and now the Omicron variant is flooding our daily lives and it is only natural that curious young children will have questions – lots of them. Here are some pointers to keep in mind tips for helping to explain what can be a complicated topic in simple and reassuring terms.
Children have a right to know what is going on, but it should be explained to them in an age-appropriate way.
Invite your child to share what they have heard and listen to their responses. It is important to be fully engaged and take any fears they have seriously. Be patient, the pandemic and misinformation has caused a lot of worry and uncertainty for everyone.
Make sure that you are up to date on the latest information yourself. Websites of international organizations like UNICEF and the World Health Organization are great sources of information about the pandemic.
If you don’t know the answer, don’t guess. Use it as an opportunity to explore the answers together.
Remember that kids take their emotional cues from adults, so even if you are worried for your little one knowing that they might be uncomfortable, try not to overshare your fears with your child.
Learn how to talk to your child about COVID-19 and COVID-19 vaccines.
Related topics
COVID-19
Vaccines
Parenting
Global
More to explore
India. A woman helps put a face mask on a child.
Page
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) information centre
The latest COVID-19 news and resources, as well as tips to protect you and your family
Visit the page
Dilan and his mother Mariangelis in Ecuador.
Article
How to talk to your children about COVID-19 vaccines
Help your child understand how vaccines work
Read the story
Franky smiling in "La Casita," Panama.
Article
Something to smile about
Looking back on the moments this year that made children smile
Read the story
Ethiopia. A mother cares for her severely malnourished baby at a UNICEF-supported stabilization unit.
Article
2021: A year marked by conflict, COVID and climate change
Children are suffering from crises that they cannot control
Read the story
SHARE
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DONATE
TOGGLE NAVIGATION
Article
What we know about the Omicron variant
What is Omicron and what precautions should you take to protect your family?
UNICEF
Teachers wearing masks and a face-shield as part of COVID-19 prevention
UNICEF/UN0500155/Pastorelli
Available in:
English
Français
Español
العربية
17 December 2021
People around the world are concerned about the Omicron variant of COVID-19. We’ve gathered the latest expert information about this new variant and will continue to update this article as more information becomes available.
For more tips and information on COVID-19, see our COVID-19 guide for parents.
Last updated: 17 December 2021
Jump to:
What is the Omicron variant?
How did the Omicron variant develop?
Where is the Omicron variant present?
Is the Omicron variant more severe?
Is the Omicron variant more contagious?
Does the Omicron variant have different symptoms?
Vaccine effectiveness against the Omicron variant
Prior COVID-19 infection and the Omicron variant
Omicron variant and testing
Omicron variant and children
How to protect your family
How to talk to your child about Omicron
What is the Omicron variant?
The Omicron variant of COVID-19 has been called a variant of concern by WHO based on the evidence that it has several mutations that may have an impact on how it behaves. There is still substantial uncertainty regarding Omicron and a lot of research underway to evaluate its transmissibility, severity and reinfection risk.
How did the Omicron variant develop?
When a virus is circulating widely and causing numerous infections, the likelihood of the virus mutating increases. The more opportunities a virus has to spread, the more opportunities it has to undergo changes.
New variants like Omicron are a reminder that the COVID-19 pandemic is far from over. It is therefore essential that people get the vaccine when available to them and continue to follow existing advice on preventing the spread of the virus, including physical distancing, wearing masks, regular handwashing and keeping indoor areas well ventilated.
It is also crucial that vaccines and other public health measures are accessible everywhere. Vaccine inequity leaves lower income countries – many of them in Africa – at the mercy of COVID-19. Well-supplied countries must urgently deliver the doses they promised.
Where is the Omicron variant present?
The Omicron variant has now been detected in many countries around the world. WHO reports that Omicron is probably in most countries, even if it hasn’t been detected yet.
Is the Omicron variant more severe than other COVID-19 variants?
Early findings suggest that Omicron might be less severe than the Delta variant, but more data is needed and WHO warns that it should not be dismissed as “mild”. Studies are ongoing and this information will be updated as it becomes available.
It is important to remember that all variants of COVID-19 can cause severe disease or death, including the Delta variant that is still dominant worldwide, which is why preventing the spread of the virus and reducing your risk of exposure to the virus is so important.
> What you need to know about the Delta variant
Is the Omicron variant more contagious?
Omicron is spreading more quickly than other variants. Based on the information available, WHO believes it is likely that Omicron will outpace the Delta variant where there is COVID-19 transmission in the community.
However, being vaccinated and taking precautions such as avoiding crowded spaces, keeping your distance from others and wearing a mask are critical in helping to prevent the spread of COVID-19, and we know these actions have been effective against other variants.
> See other precautions you can take.
Does the Omicron variant cause different symptoms?
There is no information to suggest that Omicron causes different COVID-19 symptoms from other COVID-19 variants.
Are the COVID-19 vaccines effective against the Omicron variant?
Researchers are looking into any potential impact the Omicron variant has on the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines. Information is still limited, but there may be a small reduction in the effectiveness of vaccines against severe illness and death, and a decline in preventing mild disease and infection. However, WHO reports that so far it looks like the currently available vaccines offer significant protection against severe disease and death.
It is also important to be vaccinated to protect against the other widely circulating variants, such as the Delta one. When it’s your turn, make sure to get vaccinated. If your vaccination involves two doses, it’s important to receive both in order to have the maximum protection.
Read more about COVID-19 vaccines and explore what you need to know before, during and after getting vaccinated.
Is a prior COVID-19 infection effective against the Omicron variant?
WHO reports that early evidence suggests that previous infection could offer less protection against Omicron in comparison to other variants of concern, such as Delta. Information is still limited though and we will share updates as it becomes available.
You should get vaccinated even if you’ve previously had COVID-19. While people who recover from COVID-19 may develop some natural immunity to the virus, we do not yet know how long it lasts or how well you are protected. Vaccines offer more reliable protection.
Do current COVID-19 tests detect the Omicron variant?
The widely used PCR and antigen-based rapid diagnostic tests continue to detect infection of COVID-19, including Omicron.
Are children more likely to contract the Omicron variant?
Research is ongoing into Omicron’s transmissibility and we will update as more information becomes available. However, people who are mixing socially and those who are unvaccinated are more susceptible to contracting COVID-19.
How can I protect myself and my family against the Omicron variant?
The most important thing you can do is reduce your risk of exposure to the virus. To protect yourself and your loved ones, make sure to:
Wear a mask that covers your nose and mouth. Make sure that your hands are clean when you put on and remove your mask.
Keep a physical distance of at least 1 metre from others.
Avoid poorly ventilated or crowded spaces.
Open windows to improve ventilation indoors.
Wash your hands regularly.
When it’s your turn, get vaccinated. WHO-approved COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective.
Read mask tips for families.
How can I talk to my child about the Omicron and other COVID-19 variants?
News about COVID-19 and now the Omicron variant is flooding our daily lives and it is only natural that curious young children will have questions – lots of them. Here are some pointers to keep in mind tips for helping to explain what can be a complicated topic in simple and reassuring terms.
Children have a right to know what is going on, but it should be explained to them in an age-appropriate way.
Invite your child to share what they have heard and listen to their responses. It is important to be fully engaged and take any fears they have seriously. Be patient, the pandemic and misinformation has caused a lot of worry and uncertainty for everyone.
Make sure that you are up to date on the latest information yourself. Websites of international organizations like UNICEF and the World Health Organization are great sources of information about the pandemic.
If you don’t know the answer, don’t guess. Use it as an opportunity to explore the answers together.
Remember that kids take their emotional cues from adults, so even if you are worried for your little one knowing that they might be uncomfortable, try not to overshare your fears with your child.
Learn how to talk to your child about COVID-19 and COVID-19 vaccines.
Related topics
COVID-19
Vaccines
Parenting
Global
More to explore
India. A woman helps put a face mask on a child.
Page
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) information centre
The latest COVID-19 news and resources, as well as tips to protect you and your family
Visit the page
Dilan and his mother Mariangelis in Ecuador.
Article
How to talk to your children about COVID-19 vaccines
Help your child understand how vaccines work
Read the story
Franky smiling in "La Casita," Panama.
Article
Something to smile about
Looking back on the moments this year that made children smile
Read the story
Ethiopia. A mother cares for her severely malnourished baby at a UNICEF-supported stabilization unit.
Article
2021: A year marked by conflict, COVID and climate change
Children are suffering from crises that they cannot control
Read the story
SHARE
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UNICEF Home
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Research and reports
Stories and features
Where we work
Press centre
Take action
About us
Work for UNICEF
Partner with UNICEF
UNICEF Executive Board
Evaluation
Internal Audit and Investigations
Transparency and accountability
Sustainable Development Goals
Related UNICEF sites
UNICEF Blog
UNICEF Data
UNICEF Parenting
Voices of Youth
Global Shared Services Centre
Support UNICEF
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BECOME A DONOR
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Report fraud, abuse, wrongdoingShareThis Copy and PasteWe use cookies and other identifiers to help improve your online experience. By using our website you agree to this. To learn more, including how to change your settings, see our cookies policy. Skip to main content DONATE TOGGLE NAVIGATION Article What we know about the Omicron variant What is Omicron and what precautions should you take to protect your family? UNICEF UNICEF/UN0500155/Pastorelli Available in: English Français Español العربية 17 December 2021 People around the world are concerned about the Omicron variant of COVID-19. We’ve gathered the latest expert information about this new variant and will continue to update this article as more information becomes available. For more tips and information on COVID-19, see our COVID-19 guide for parents. Last updated: 17 December 2021 Jump to: What is the Omicron variant? How did the Omicron variant develop? Where is the Omicron variant present? Is the Omicron variant more severe? Is the Omicron variant more contagious? Does the Omicron variant have different symptoms? Vaccine effectiveness against the Omicron variant Prior COVID-19 infection and the Omicron variant Omicron variant and testing Omicron variant and children How to protect your family How to talk to your child about Omicron What is the Omicron variant? The Omicron variant of COVID-19 has been called a variant of concern by WHO based on the evidence that it has several mutations that may have an impact on how it behaves. There is still substantial uncertainty regarding Omicron and a lot of research underway to evaluate its transmissibility, severity and reinfection risk. How did the Omicron variant develop? When a virus is circulating widely and causing numerous infections, the likelihood of the virus mutating increases. The more opportunities a virus has to spread, the more opportunities it has to undergo changes. New variants like Omicron are a reminder that the COVID-19 pandemic is far from over. It is therefore essential that people get the vaccine when available to them and continue to follow existing advice on preventing the spread of the virus, including physical distancing, wearing masks, regular handwashing and keeping indoor areas well ventilated. It is also crucial that vaccines and other public health measures are accessible everywhere. Vaccine inequity leaves lower income countries – many of them in Africa – at the mercy of COVID-19. Well-supplied countries must urgently deliver the doses they promised. Where is the Omicron variant present? The Omicron variant has now been detected in many countries around the world. WHO reports that Omicron is probably in most countries, even if it hasn’t been detected yet. Is the Omicron variant more severe than other COVID-19 variants? Early findings suggest that Omicron might be less severe than the Delta variant, but more data is needed and WHO warns that it should not be dismissed as “mild”. Studies are ongoing and this information will be updated as it becomes available. It is important to remember that all variants of COVID-19 can cause severe disease or death, including the Delta variant that is still dominant worldwide, which is why preventing the spread of the virus and reducing your risk of exposure to the virus is so important. > What you need to know about the Delta variant Is the Omicron variant more contagious? Omicron is spreading more quickly than other variants. Based on the information available, WHO believes it is likely that Omicron will outpace the Delta variant where there is COVID-19 transmission in the community. However, being vaccinated and taking precautions such as avoiding crowded spaces, keeping your distance from others and wearing a mask are critical in helping to prevent the spread of COVID-19, and we know these actions have been effective against other variants. > See other precautions you can take. Does the Omicron variant cause different symptoms? There is no information to suggest that Omicron causes different COVID-19 symptoms from other COVID-19 variants. Are the COVID-19 vaccines effective against the Omicron variant? Researchers are looking into any potential impact the Omicron variant has on the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines. Information is still limited, but there may be a small reduction in the effectiveness of vaccines against severe illness and death, and a decline in preventing mild disease and infection. However, WHO reports that so far it looks like the currently available vaccines offer significant protection against severe disease and death. It is also important to be vaccinated to protect against the other widely circulating variants, such as the Delta one. When it’s your turn, make sure to get vaccinated. If your vaccination involves two doses, it’s important to receive both in order to have the maximum protection. Read more about COVID-19 vaccines and explore what you need to know before, during and after getting vaccinated. Is a prior COVID-19 infection effective against the Omicron variant? WHO reports that early evidence suggests that previous infection could offer less protection against Omicron in comparison to other variants of concern, such as Delta. Information is still limited though and we will share updates as it becomes available. You should get vaccinated even if you’ve previously had COVID-19. While people who recover from COVID-19 may develop some natural immunity to the virus, we do not yet know how long it lasts or how well you are protected. Vaccines offer more reliable protection. Do current COVID-19 tests detect the Omicron variant? The widely used PCR and antigen-based rapid diagnostic tests continue to detect infection of COVID-19, including Omicron. Are children more likely to contract the Omicron variant? Research is ongoing into Omicron’s transmissibility and we will update as more information becomes available. However, people who are mixing socially and those who are unvaccinated are more susceptible to contracting COVID-19. How can I protect myself and my family against the Omicron variant? The most important thing you can do is reduce your risk of exposure to the virus. To protect yourself and your loved ones, make sure to: Wear a mask that covers your nose and mouth. Make sure that your hands are clean when you put on and remove your mask. Keep a physical distance of at least 1 metre from others. Avoid poorly ventilated or crowded spaces. Open windows to improve ventilation indoors. Wash your hands regularly. When it’s your turn, get vaccinated. WHO-approved COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective. Read mask tips for families. How can I talk to my child about the Omicron and other COVID-19 variants? News about COVID-19 and now the Omicron variant is flooding our daily lives and it is only natural that curious young children will have questions – lots of them. Here are some pointers to keep in mind tips for helping to explain what can be a complicated topic in simple and reassuring terms. Children have a right to know what is going on, but it should be explained to them in an age-appropriate way. Invite your child to share what they have heard and listen to their responses. It is important to be fully engaged and take any fears they have seriously. Be patient, the pandemic and misinformation has caused a lot of worry and uncertainty for everyone. Make sure that you are up to date on the latest information yourself. Websites of international organizations like UNICEF and the World Health Organization are great sources of information about the pandemic. If you don’t know the answer, don’t guess. Use it as an opportunity to explore the answers together. Remember that kids take their emotional cues from adults, so even if you are worried for your little one knowing that they might be uncomfortable, try not to overshare your fears with your child. Learn how to talk to your child about COVID-19 and COVID-19 vaccines. Related topics COVID-19 Vaccines Parenting Global More to explore Page Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) information centre The latest COVID-19 news and resources, as well as tips to protect you and your family Visit the page Article How to talk to your children about COVID-19 vaccines Help your child understand how vaccines work Read the story Article Something to smile about Looking back on the moments this year that made children smile Read the story Article 2021: A year marked by conflict, COVID and climate change Children are suffering from crises that they cannot control Read the story SHARE Footer UNICEF Home What we do Research and reports Stories and features Where we work Press centre Take action About us Work for UNICEF Partner with UNICEF UNICEF Executive Board Evaluation Internal Audit and Investigations Transparency and accountability Sustainable Development Goals Related UNICEF sites UNICEF Blog UNICEF Data UNICEF Parenting Voices of Youth Global Shared Services Centre Support UNICEF ЮНИСЕФ на Русском BECOME A DONOR Social Footer Secondary Contact usLegal Footer tertiary Report fraud, abuse, wrongdoing We use cookies and other identifiers to help improve your online experience. By using our website you agree to this. To learn more, including how to change your settings, see our cookies policy. Skip to main content DONATE TOGGLE NAVIGATION Article What we know about the Omicron variant What is Omicron and what precautions should you take to protect your family? UNICEF UNICEF/UN0500155/Pastorelli Available in: English Français Español العربية 17 December 2021 People around the world are concerned about the Omicron variant of COVID-19. We’ve gathered the latest expert information about this new variant and will continue to update this article as more information becomes available. For more tips and information on COVID-19, see our COVID-19 guide for parents. Last updated: 17 December 2021 Jump to: What is the Omicron variant? How did the Omicron variant develop? Where is the Omicron variant present? Is the Omicron variant more severe? Is the Omicron variant more contagious? Does the Omicron variant have different symptoms? Vaccine effectiveness against the Omicron variant Prior COVID-19 infection and the Omicron variant Omicron variant and testing Omicron variant and children How to protect your family How to talk to your child about Omicron What is the Omicron variant? The Omicron variant of COVID-19 has been called a variant of concern by WHO based on the evidence that it has several mutations that may have an impact on how it behaves. There is still substantial uncertainty regarding Omicron and a lot of research underway to evaluate its transmissibility, severity and reinfection risk. How did the Omicron variant develop? When a virus is circulating widely and causing numerous infections, the likelihood of the virus mutating increases. The more opportunities a virus has to spread, the more opportunities it has to undergo changes. New variants like Omicron are a reminder that the COVID-19 pandemic is far from over. It is therefore essential that people get the vaccine when available to them and continue to follow existing advice on preventing the spread of the virus, including physical distancing, wearing masks, regular handwashing and keeping indoor areas well ventilated. It is also crucial that vaccines and other public health measures are accessible everywhere. Vaccine inequity leaves lower income countries – many of them in Africa – at the mercy of COVID-19. Well-supplied countries must urgently deliver the doses they promised. Where is the Omicron variant present? The Omicron variant has now been detected in many countries around the world. WHO reports that Omicron is probably in most countries, even if it hasn’t been detected yet. Is the Omicron variant more severe than other COVID-19 variants? Early findings suggest that Omicron might be less severe than the Delta variant, but more data is needed and WHO warns that it should not be dismissed as “mild”. Studies are ongoing and this information will be updated as it becomes available. It is important to remember that all variants of COVID-19 can cause severe disease or death, including the Delta variant that is still dominant worldwide, which is why preventing the spread of the virus and reducing your risk of exposure to the virus is so important. > What you need to know about the Delta variant Is the Omicron variant more contagious? Omicron is spreading more quickly than other variants. Based on the information available, WHO believes it is likely that Omicron will outpace the Delta variant where there is COVID-19 transmission in the community. However, being vaccinated and taking precautions such as avoiding crowded spaces, keeping your distance from others and wearing a mask are critical in helping to prevent the spread of COVID-19, and we know these actions have been effective against other variants. > See other precautions you can take. Does the Omicron variant cause different symptoms? There is no information to suggest that Omicron causes different COVID-19 symptoms from other COVID-19 variants. Are the COVID-19 vaccines effective against the Omicron variant? Researchers are looking into any potential impact the Omicron variant has on the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines. Information is still limited, but there may be a small reduction in the effectiveness of vaccines against severe illness and death, and a decline in preventing mild disease and infection. However, WHO reports that so far it looks like the currently available vaccines offer significant protection against severe disease and death. It is also important to be vaccinated to protect against the other widely circulating variants, such as the Delta one. When it’s your turn, make sure to get vaccinated. If your vaccination involves two doses, it’s important to receive both in order to have the maximum protection. Read more about COVID-19 vaccines and explore what you need to know before, during and after getting vaccinated. Is a prior COVID-19 infection effective against the Omicron variant? WHO reports that early evidence suggests that previous infection could offer less protection against Omicron in comparison to other variants of concern, such as Delta. Information is still limited though and we will share updates as it becomes available. You should get vaccinated even if you’ve previously had COVID-19. While people who recover from COVID-19 may develop some natural immunity to the virus, we do not yet know how long it lasts or how well you are protected. Vaccines offer more reliable protection. Do current COVID-19 tests detect the Omicron variant? The widely used PCR and antigen-based rapid diagnostic tests continue to detect infection of COVID-19, including Omicron. Are children more likely to contract the Omicron variant? Research is ongoing into Omicron’s transmissibility and we will update as more information becomes available. However, people who are mixing socially and those who are unvaccinated are more susceptible to contracting COVID-19. How can I protect myself and my family against the Omicron variant? The most important thing you can do is reduce your risk of exposure to the virus. To protect yourself and your loved ones, make sure to: Wear a mask that covers your nose and mouth. Make sure that your hands are clean when you put on and remove your mask. Keep a physical distance of at least 1 metre from others. Avoid poorly ventilated or crowded spaces. Open windows to improve ventilation indoors. Wash your hands regularly. When it’s your turn, get vaccinated. WHO-approved COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective. Read mask tips for families. How can I talk to my child about the Omicron and other COVID-19 variants? News about COVID-19 and now the Omicron variant is flooding our daily lives and it is only natural that curious young children will have questions – lots of them. Here are some pointers to keep in mind tips for helping to explain what can be a complicated topic in simple and reassuring terms. Children have a right to know what is going on, but it should be explained to them in an age-appropriate way. Invite your child to share what they have heard and listen to their responses. It is important to be fully engaged and take any fears they have seriously. Be patient, the pandemic and misinformation has caused a lot of worry and uncertainty for everyone. Make sure that you are up to date on the latest information yourself. Websites of international organizations like UNICEF and the World Health Organization are great sources of information about the pandemic. If you don’t know the answer, don’t guess. Use it as an opportunity to explore the answers together. Remember that kids take their emotional cues from adults, so even if you are worried for your little one knowing that they might be uncomfortable, try not to overshare your fears with your child. Learn how to talk to your child about COVID-19 and COVID-19 vaccines. Related topics COVID-19 Vaccines Parenting Global More to explore Page Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) information centre The latest COVID-19 news and resources, as well as tips to protect you and your family Visit the page Article How to talk to your children about COVID-19 vaccines Help your child understand how vaccines work Read the story Article Something to smile about Looking back on the moments this year that made children smile Read the story Article 2021: A year marked by conflict, COVID and climate change Children are suffering from crises that they cannot control Read the story SHARE Footer UNICEF Home What we do Research and reports Stories and features Where we work Press centre Take action About us Work for UNICEF Partner with UNICEF UNICEF Executive Board Evaluation Internal Audit and Investigations Transparency and accountability Sustainable Development Goals Related UNICEF sites UNICEF Blog UNICEF Data UNICEF Parenting Voices of Youth Global Shared Services Centre Support UNICEF ЮНИСЕФ на Русском BECOME A DONOR Social Footer Secondary Contact usLegal Footer tertiary Report fraud, abuse, wrongdoingShareThis Copy and Paste
medical and psychosocial home to home care
