Laura Ungar of the Associated Press writes in a recent article that the Omicron sub-variant BA.2 (also known as “stealth Omicron” is causing one third of the recent cases around the world. As researchers reportedly more about this sub-variant, the World Health Organization (WHO) advised “public health authorities to monitor it as a distinct omicron strain”.

We’re all keeping an eye on BA.2 just because it has done particularly well in some parts of the world, including parts of Asia, Africa and Europe.

– Dr. Wesley Long, a pathologist at Houston Methodist in Texas (source: Star Tribune)

The AP writes “Early research suggests it spreads faster than the original omicron and in rare cases can sicken people even if they’ve already had an omicron infection. There’s mixed research on whether it causes more severe disease, but vaccines appear just as effective against it.”

According to the AP, BA.2 has been reported from 50 states of the US and above 80 countries around the world.

“In the US, BA.2 caused about 4% of COVID cases during the week ending Feb. 19, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The percentage was lower in some regions and higher in others – hitting about 7% in New England.”

• As ‘stealth omicron’ advances, scientists are learning more
• COVID-19 presents greater risk to vulnerable Minnesotans as mask requirements end

Recently, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has revised its Covid metrics based on hospitalization rather than number of reported cases, as the reported cases don’t reflect the actual case numbers because at-home tests results are not reported to the agency. As a result, masks mandate recommendation have been dropped from safe places or for healthy people.

Many retailers like the Target, Walmart, and others has pull back their mask requirements for the customers too.

Vulnerable Minnesotans are reportedly raising concerns that the conditions are getting worse for them. “But the pandemic is far from over for people with weakened immune systems and chronic conditions that make them susceptible to serious complications caused by COVID-19,” writes the Tribune.

Kimberly Shoemate, whose daughter Raelen has sickle cell disease, told the Tribune “I think we have this notion that just because the numbers are getting a little bit lower or businesses are hurting for money that now we can be more relaxed and we don’t have to wear a mask. Whatever decision we make not only affects us today, it will affect our future.”

Mike Zontelli, who was born with kidney disease,and whose wife is an eye doctor, told the Tribune “I have this terrible immune system so you always have to be careful. You have to think about all this crazy stuff that you never would have thought of before. […] Really my only risk factor is if my wife got it. (His wife) is taking every precaution possible, including eating lunch in her car and installing air filters in her office and exam rooms.”