After a steep rise in Omicron cases in South Africa after the variant was first detected, the epidemic quickly dropped and experts believe the wave has now passed.
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WHO said this week that after a continuous rise of COVID-19 across Africa, cases fell this week for the first time.
Scientists in Britain and the U.S. say there are early signs the crush of Omicron may have peaked, but they are still uncertain how the next phase of the pandemic might unfold.
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WHO noted the Americas reported the highest-ever number of COVID-19 cases this week, with a 78 per cent spike, mainly driven by the U.S.
The number of new cases in Europe rose by 31 per cent, while there was a 10 per cent drop in deaths.
The biggest jump in COVID-19 infections was noted in Southeast Asia, where cases increased by more than 400 per cent, with the largest numbers reported in India, Timor-Leste, Thailand and Bangladesh. The numbers of deaths in the region fell by six per cent.
The Omicron variant spreads even more easily than other coronavirus strains, and has already become dominant in many countries.
It also more easily infects those who have been vaccinated or had previously been infected by prior versions of the virus.
However, early studies show omicron is less likely to cause severe illness than the previous Delta variant, and vaccination and a booster still offer strong protection from serious illness, hospitalization and death.
© 2022 The Canadian Press
