Hospitalisation rates for Omicron lower than Delta, studies raise hope

Two studies from Britain published Wednesday showed Covid infections with Omicron variant are less likely to result in hospitalisation compared to the Delta variant.

The studies coincide with the initial on-ground trend observed in South Africa where Omicron was first detected.

The preliminary studies, one paper from Scotland and the other from England, were welcomed but cautiously by experts.

The experts stressed that any advantage in milder outcomes could still be negated by the new strain's heightened infectiousness which may lead to overall severe disease.

Also read: Efficacy of Covishield for Omicron reduces 3-5 months after 2nd jab: Lancet study

The Scottish paper examined Covid cases recorded in November and December, and grouped them by cases caused by Delta against those caused by Omicron.

While the England paper found that there was a 20 to 25 percent reduction in any attendance at hospital for Omicron as compared to Delta and a 40 to 45 percent reduction in hospitalizations lasting one night or longer.

Notably, neither of the studies are peer reviewed yet but they add to the growing evidence about the course the sickness takes after Omicron infection.