Canadian researchers tracking potentially more transmissible Omicron subvariant

Canadian researchers are tracking a potentially more transmissible subvariant of the Omicron strain of COVID-19, known as BA.2.

Experts say the strain spreads fast and easily with 10,000 cases reported in around 50 countries around the world. Some have dubbed it “stealth Omicron” due to it being harder to detect on PCR tests due to its genetic makeup.

A handful of Omicron subvariants featuring different mutations have been identified so far — but BA. 2 is getting attention because there is an increase in cases in Canada.

In B.C., the Ministry of Health says as of Jan. 21, it has detected 66 cases of the BA. 2 strain, with 33 of them being related to international travel surveillance.

Although it’s unclear if there may be more cases as B.C. health officials no longer suggests those with mild symptoms be tested for COVID-19.

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• Kids vaccine rate remains low despite rampant spread of Omicron variant

In Denmark, the subvariant now accounts for nearly half of all Omicron cases.

There are early signs BA.2 may be more transmissible than the original Omicron variant but it is not clear what impact it could have on the current wave of infections.

The World Health Organization has called for research into BA.2 to be prioritized over other Omicron subvariants.