Epidemiological analysis of the first 1000 cases of SARS‐CoV‐2 lineage BA.1 (B.1.1.529, Omicron) compared with co‐circulating Delta in Wales, UK

Abstract

Key findings include a lower risk of anosmia and a reduced risk of hospitalisation in the first 1000 Omicron cases compared with co-circulating Delta cases. We also identify that existing measures for travel restrictions to control importations of new variants identified outside the United Kingdom did not prevent the rapid ingress of Omicron within Wales.