Omicron is a variant of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19. It was first identified in South Africa in November 2021 and was designated as a Variant of Concern by the World Health Organization (WHO) due to its high number of mutations, particularly in the spike protein. These mutations made Omicron significantly more transmissible than previous variants, leading to rapid global spread.

Omicron caused a surge in COVID-19 cases worldwide, although it was generally associated with a milder form of the disease compared to the Delta variant. However, due to its high transmissibility, it still posed a significant public health challenge, leading to increased hospitalizations and pressure on healthcare systems, particularly among unvaccinated populations.

The emergence of Omicron also led to discussions about vaccine efficacy, as some vaccines showed reduced effectiveness in preventing infection with this variant, though they remained effective in preventing severe disease and death. Booster doses of vaccines were recommended to enhance immunity against Omicron.

As the variant spread, various sub-lineages of Omicron emerged, each with slight genetic differences, further complicating the global response to the pandemic. Omicron's impact highlighted the ongoing need for vaccination, public health measures, and global cooperation to manage and eventually end the COVID-19 pandemic.

A video with falsely claimed snorting dry ginger powder could cure COVID-19, specifically targeting the Omicron variant.

BOOM found that there is no relevant scientific study or evidence to support the claim that dry ginger snorting can cure COVID-19. The video was misleading and promoted unverified and potentially harmful health practices