Covid “variants of concern” have been assigned to two Omicron strains.

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) cautioned in a paper that variants BA4 and BA5 may be able to resist immunizations and are likely to dominate Europe’s Covid cases.

Concerns are growing that the new variations will result in a large increase of cases this summer across Europe.

“In the following weeks and months, the occurrence of these variations could cause a considerable overall increase in Covid-19 cases in the EU/EEA,” the ECDC said.

Although the fraction of BA.4 and BA.5 in the EU/EEA is currently low, the reported substantial growth advantages suggest that these variants will become prevalent in the future.

As a result, the EU authority is now advising member countries to “stay attentive” for signals of rising tensions.

They’re also asking with those over the age of 80 to obtain a second booster shot to safeguard themselves.

The ECDC noted that the over 60s and other vulnerable groups should also be targeted for a second booster.

Two cases of the new variations were discovered in the UK this week, which is concerning.

In January and February of this year, the BA4 and BA5 strains were initially discovered in South Africa.