All you need to know about Omicron: The New Variant of the COVID-19
Just when we began to recover from the two waves of the COVID-19 pandemic, hearing about yet another mutation of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, Omicron, reaching India, is a cause of worry. It is more important now than ever to complete both doses of your COVID vaccine at the nearest healthcare facility for maximum protection.
Omicron has been labelled as a ‘Variant of Concern’ by the WHO and poses a global health risk. Although only mild infections have been observed in people so far, this latest variant is expected to cause higher incidence of reinfections. This could mean that the Omicron variant can evade the immune system and cause a breakthrough of infections after getting vaccinated. While the delta variant is responsible for higher infections and mortality, Omicron, with its large number of mutations, is highly transmissible. Further characteristics can only be confirmed once extensive testing has been done.
What are the symptoms of the Omicron variant?
No unusual symptoms of Omicron infected patients have been reported so far. But it is safe to assume that the same symptoms observed in the earlier strains should be expected.
Some common signs to watch out for are-
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pains
- Loss of smell & taste
- Weakness
- Stomachache
- Diarrhoea
Do current vaccines work against the Omicron variant?
Most of the variants of SARS-CoV-2 have been neutralized by the current vaccines, therefore most of the vaccine developers believe that they will be able to counteract any adverse complications that Omicron may bring about.
Experts suggest that COVAXIN may be effective against the new variant as it is based on the ‘whole virion inactivated coronavirus’. Further experimentation is required to confirm its efficacy. COVISHIELD on the other hand, has to be studied further to fully understand the effect it has on Omicron. There may be a possibility of a booster dose specific to the variant coming up. But priority is still double vaccination of all citizens.
What precautions to be taken amid the spread of the new strain?
With schools, offices, market places and event entertainment centres opening up, it is important that you-
- Complete both doses of your COVID vaccine
- Practice social distancing strictly
- Sanitize your hands periodically with an alcohol-based sanitizer or soap & water
- Always wear a mask when stepping out
- Limit your travel to only essential trips
- Consult your doctor immediately in case you experience any signs of illness such as fever, weakness, cough or sore throat.
How to protect your mental health with the upcoming strain of the Coronavirus?
The pandemic has negatively impacted our mental health. There has been a significant rise in cases of people having difficulty in sleeping, eating, increased alcohol consumption and even worsening of other chronic conditions.
Here are some mental wellbeing tips-
- Make a daily routine and stick by it.
- Take enough breaks to avoid a burnout.
- Indulge in healthy food and drink plenty of water
- Cut down on your alcohol consumption
- Incorporate a light workout or yoga in your routine.
- Stay connected with your loved ones.
Omicron is spreading fast, but it's early detection can prove to be advantageous in our fight against the pandemic. Be vigilant and practice all social distancing norms very strictly. Schedule your vaccination dose at the earliest to equip your immune system to fight off the virus.
Visit A.J. Hospital, Mangalore, to get vaccinated today. For more information on COVID Care Services and post COVID healthcare, reach out to us on our COVID helpline number: +91 84948 91800.