Is RT-PCR enough for testing Omicron variant? Need a modified test for travellers, says Insacog

Insacog, a consortium of government institutions, involved in the genome sequencing of the coronavirus, is of the view that a "modified" PCR test should be conducted on travellers who are Covid-19 positive, amid concerns over the heavily mutated variant, Omicron. The Insacog met on Monday to discuss the steps that India should take in view of the new variant.

RT-PCR is the current gold-standard of Covid-19 testing. However, the experts at Insacog suggested that a modified test should be done for identifying the variant.

"The Insacog members felt that other than the RT-PCR test, those travellers coming from at-risk countries that test positive should undergo a modified test to identify the variant which can be taken up on priority for sequencing. The asymptomatic travellers will also have to undergo RT-PCR test," one of the members told ET on the condition of anonymity. "It will require some changes in the existing PCR kit," added another member.


India has yet not detected the presence of the new variant. The variant has sparked serious concerns among experts as it has 32 mutations in the spike protein. The mutations in the spike protein can affect the virus's ability to spread and infect. This could have implications for vaccine efficacy and transmissibility.

The WHO and the research teams are working on understanding the mutations in the new Omicron strain of Covid-19 and the impact that it will have on testing, therapeutics and the efficacy of the vaccine.