Outbreak caused by the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant in Norway, November to December 2021
Lin T. Brandal, Emily MacDonald, Lamprini Veneti, Tine Ravlo, Heidi Lange, Umaer Naseer, Siri Feruglio, Karoline Bragstad, Olav Hungnes, Liz E. Ødeskaug, Frode Hagen, Kristian E. Hanch-Hansen, Andreas Lind, Sara Viksmoen Watle, Arne M. Taxt, Mia Johansen, Line Vold, Preben Aavitsland, Karin Nygård, Elisabeth H. Madslien
Abstract
In late November 2021, an outbreak of Omicron SARS-CoV-2 following a Christmas party with 117 attendees was detected in Oslo, Norway. We observed an attack rate of 74% and most cases developed symptoms. As at 13 December, none have been hospitalised. Most participants were 30-50 years old. Ninety-six percent of them were fully vaccinated. These findings corroborate reports that the Omicron variant may be more transmissible, and that vaccination may be less effective in preventing infection compared with Delta.