I think that the basic severity-lowering gradient still applies, but now it happens in two dimensions. Furthermore, it seems plausible that the sequence of vari

I think that the basic severity-lowering gradient still applies, but now it happens in two dimensions. Furthermore, it seems plausible that the sequence of variants "Original" -> Delta -> Omicron follows such a pattern. First, evolutionary pressure will select for a lower dormancy period, i.e. a lower time to contagion. This is because a variant with a shorter dormancy will spread faster than one with a longer dormancy period if both are present in the same population. This is also exactly what happened with the Delta variant, which is asymptomatic generally for a shorter period[1] than the original variant, because it replicates faster. Second, the usual process occurs for the usual reasons. This may be happening with Omicron. [1]: https://www.health.govt.nz/our-work/diseases-and-conditions/covid-19-novel-coronavirus/covid-19-health-advice-public/about-covid-19/covid-19-about-delta-variant https://www.health.govt.nz/our-work/diseases-and-conditions/...