
We all want the Omicron variant to be milder. Here's why it's too soon to know
CNN
The Omicron variant may look like it's causing mostly mild illness, but it's too soon to bet on that, experts agree.
Then came a report showing the variant carries a portion of genetic material that's very similar to segments seen in one of the types of coronaviruses that causes the common colds -- one called HCoV-229E. A few researchers said it just might indicate the variant is starting to look more like a nuisance virus than a big killer.
It's a tantalizing idea. Many infectious disease experts have been predicting that the novel coronavirus, named SARS-CoV-2, would go in this direction, evolving into a milder form that joins the annual mix of seasonal respiratory viruses.

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