Dangers of latest COVID-19 variant still unknown, say experts

The World Health Organization is not recommending ‘blanket travel bans’

Work to understand Omicron COVID-19, the latest variant of the pandemic continues around the world, but the World Health Organization (WHO) is advising countries remain calm in preparing for its probable spread.

Christian Lindmeier, WHO spokesperson, says that data suggesting Omicron is highly transmissible was only preliminary, and they advise against blanket travel bans for most countries. “It is much more preferred to prepare your country, your health system to possibly incoming cases, because we can be pretty sure this Omicron variant will spread,” he said.

Children Believe continues to make great strides to help communities overcome the health impacts of COVID-19. In Paraguay, working with partner agencies, Children Believe is piloting a project to highlight the importance of healthy living and preventative measures to stop the spread of the virus.

You can help children and families overcome the challenges caused by the pandemic through a COVID-19 Relief gift in our Gifts for Good catalogue.

About Children Believe

Children Believe works globally to empower children to dream fearlessly, stand up for what they believe in — and be heard. For 60+ years, we’ve brought together brave young dreamers, caring supporters and partners, and unabashed idealists. Together, we’re driven by a common belief: creating access to education — inside and outside of classrooms — is the most powerful tool children can use to change their world.

About Childfund Alliance

A member of ChildFund Alliance, Children Believe is part of a global network of child-focused development organizations working to create opportunities for children and youth, their families and communities. ChildFund helps nearly 23-million children and their families in 70 countries overcome poverty and underlying conditions that prevent children from achieving their full potential. We work to end violence against children; provide expertise in emergencies and disasters to ease the harmful impact on children and their communities; and engage children and youth to create lasting change and elevate their voices in decisions that affect their lives.

About Inspiring Stories

July 2025

Post G7 Aftermath: Why we Need to Keep Pushing for...

Why Canada must lead on global education: a call for bold action post-G7 to prevent conflict, foster peace, and invest in children’s futures.

July 2025

What does freedom mean?

This Nelson Mandela Day, discover what freedom means through the eyes of a child—and why education is the most powerful tool to unlock it.

June 2025

Children Believe’s Canadian journey

Celebrate Canada Day with Children Believe as we honour our Canadian roots, generous supporters, and a legacy of compassion creating change worldwide.