The surge in Omicron has brought nations to a state of dilemma. They either have to choose their economy or the health of the citizens. The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned about the overwhelming impact that health care systems around the globe can face.
According to the present WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Omicron is a matter of concern. The newly detected variant is highly transmissible and spread at the same pace as the COVID-19s Delta variant. There are countries like China that have put thousands of people under lockdown and taken strict measures to curb the spread of Omicron. Whereas in Europe, almost every country is on high alert ever since WHO predicted a major trauma that Omicron may give.
France has suggested companies opt for a work from home approach while bidding people stay at their homes as much as they can. Meanwhile, the government in Finland has decided to not allow unvaccinated foreign nationals from entering the country. In their new rule, only those who are either diplomats, laborers, or residents are permitted to stay. In Sweden, the government has put a somewhat similar restriction and only those with negative coronavirus test reports will be allowed in the nation.
Whereas, the authorities in Germany have shut down nightclubs. For gatherings, people can invite up to 10 vaccinated people. The sports events are either canceled or are happening behind closed doors only. However, putting these restrictions is not simple for the government. A large number of people are protesting against these curbs.
Even many political leaders are worried about the negative economic impact that isolation and lockdowns can make. This is why some are considering shortening the isolation period after a positive report. According to Anthony Fauci, a leading top infectious disease official in the United States, they are trying to strike a balance between public health and the economy.