In an epidemiological report released on Tuesday, the World Health Organization (WHO) emphasized that the COVID-19 pandemic is currently characterized by the predominance of the Delta variant, adding that recently-discovered Omicron has been reported in just 19 countries and regions, with most cases travel-related.

The report specified that of 839,119 genetic sequence samples collected over the last 60 days, 99.8% were Delta, while fewer than 0.1% were Omicron.

The WHO also warned that blanket travel bans will not prevent Omicron's international spread, even as dozens of countries have already introduced such restrictions.