World Health Organisation has named the new COVID-19 variant B.1.1.529, which was detected in South Africa, as 'Omicron', saying it may spread more quickly than other forms. After a closed meeting of independent experts who reviewed the data, the WHO said, preliminary evidence suggests there is an increased risk of reinfection and there had been a detrimental change in COVID-19 epidemiology. It said, infections in South Africa had risen steeply in recent weeks, coinciding with detection of the variant now designated as omicron. This variant has a large number of mutations, some of which are concerning. Preliminary evidence suggests an increased risk of reinfection with this variant, as compared to other (variants of concern), the WHO added.<br />''<br />''The WHO said, this variant has been detected at faster rates than previous surges in infection, suggesting that this variant may have a growth advantage. Current PCR tests continue to successfully detect the variant, it said.<br />''<br />''Earlier, the WHO cautioned countries against hastily imposing travel restrictions linked to the variant of COVID, saying they should take a risk-based and scientific approach.<br />''<br />''<br />