Characteristics and Outcomes of Hospitalized Patients in South Africa During the COVID-19 Omicron Wave Compared With Previous Waves
Caroline Maslo, Richard Friedland, Mande Toubkin, Anchen Laubscher, Teshlin Akaloo, Boniswa Kama
Abstract
On November 24, 2021, a SARS-CoV-2 variant of concern, Omicron (B.1.1.529), was identified in South Africa as responsible for a fourth wave of COVID-19. The high number of spike mutations has raised concerns about its ability to evade vaccine and spread. 3,4 We assessed hospitalized patients with a positive SARS-CoV-2 test result during the fourth wave compared with previous waves.
Topics & Concepts
MedicineCoronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)2019-20 coronavirus outbreakVirologyInternal medicineOutbreakInfectious disease (medical specialty)DiseaseCOVID-19 epidemiological studiesCOVID-19 and healthcare impactsSARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19 Research