Replying to both posts at once. And I'll start with my closing statement: Time will tell how this variant plays out. I am just stating my opinion, which isnt worth anything. The points you are all making are valid, but so are the counterpoints.

1) Long haulers. You make a fair point that is a major issue. I think Long haulers is the most viable covid related target for us. With that said, its entirely possible that Omicron causes less long haulers. We shouldnt assume that it will be the same until we see how it plays out.

2) Yes South Africa has a lower average age. But they also have a higher percentage of immunocompromised people in their population. Its not like they dont have old people. Its likely that nearly the entire population of the planet will be infected by Omicron, and that most of South Africa will have been infected in the coming weeks. Still no uptick.