Preparedness in Combating the New COVID-19 Variant, Omicron in Saudi Arabia: A Review of Existing Strategies, Findings, and Implications for the Future

Abstract

The SARS-CoV-2 is mutating persistently with the newer variant, Omicron infecting many countries including Saudi Arabia. There are concerns regarding the efficacy of the existing treatment and vaccinations in this context. Although the Saudi ministry has issued selected exemptions, public awareness about the need for social distancing, masks, and personal hygiene is key to prevention. COVID-19 booster doses are freely available and easily accessible in Saudi Arabia, and the Ministry of Health (MOH) has underlined the importance of the booster dose vaccine to maintain active immune status in the Tawalkana App, the Saudi Arabian government’s frontline application for managing and combating the pandemic. Moreover, their official website has established forty distinct guidelines for tackling COVID-19. The MOH of Saudi Arabia has also implemented an effective COVID-19 treatment protocol with strict governmental surveillance enabling them to be among the first to lift COVID-19 preventive measures and serve as a role model for others. Nevertheless, considering limited research data, further studies are necessary for the in-depth evaluation of new variants, including Omicron, and their potential implications.