Importation and Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 B.1.1.529 (Omicron) Variant of Concern in Korea, November 2021

J Korean Med Sci. 2021 Dec 27;36(50):e346. doi: 10.3346/jkms.2021.36.e346.

Abstract

In November 2021, 14 international travel-related severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) B.1.1.529 (omicron) variant of concern (VOC) patients were detected in South Korea. Epidemiologic investigation revealed community transmission of the omicron VOC. A total of 80 SARS-CoV-2 omicron VOC-positive patients were identified until December 10, 2021 and 66 of them reported no relation to the international travel. There may be more transmissions with this VOC in Korea than reported.

Keywords: COVID-19; Coronavirus; Omicron Variant; SARS-CoV-2.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • COVID-19 / epidemiology
  • COVID-19 / transmission*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Republic of Korea / epidemiology
  • SARS-CoV-2*
  • Travel-Related Illness*
  • Young Adult

Supplementary concepts

  • SARS-CoV-2 variants