JKSSB Sub Inspector of Police (JKPSI) 2022 — Q89 Solved Answer with Explanation

Question

The new SARS-CoV-2 variant, B.1.1.529 first reported in South Africa, classified as a "Variant of Concern" by the World Health Organization is named as:

1. A. Delta plus
2. B. Gamma
3. C. Omicron (Correct answer)
4. D. Alpha

Correct Answer

Option C — Omicron

Detailed Solution & Explanation

The SARS-CoV-2 variant B.1.1.529, first detected in Botswana and South Africa in November 2021, was designated a Variant of Concern (VOC) by the WHO on November 26, 2021, and named Omicron (the 15th letter of the Greek alphabet). Omicron had an unprecedented number of mutations in the spike protein, making it highly transmissible. The Delta Plus variant is a sub-lineage of Delta, Gamma is another VOC, and Alpha was the first major VOC from the UK -- none of these are B.1.1.529.