Two Cases of Breakthrough Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) Infections Caused by the Omicron Variant (B.1.1.529 Lineage) in International Travelers to Japan

Abstract

In November 2021, the World Health Organization designated a new severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variant of concern, Omicron (PANGO lineage B.1.1.529). We report on the first 2 cases of breakthrough coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by Omicron in Japan among international travelers returning from the country with undetected infection. The spread of infection by Omicron were considered.

Keywords: COVID-19; Omicron; SARS-CoV-2; spike mutation; variant of concern.