OMICRON – Another Threat
Covid 19 has been giving a roller coaster ride to the entire world since 2019. Though the world is trying to get back to normal with the new norms, one or the other variant of this virus keep us in agony. At present Omicron , another variant after Delta is spreading its threat and terror on the planet. This variant is now wreaking havoc across the planet.
1. Omicron – Another Variant of Covid 19
The threat of Covid 19 is still hovering on the planet, in the form of its variants. After Delta, it is Omicron now. It may be milder as per the early findings but there is still substantial uncertainty regarding Omicron and research has yet to evaluate its transmissibility, severity and re-infection risk. Therefore it cannot be declared as a mild variant. Omicron is very infectious and spreading more quickly than other variants. We all have to be very careful. Preventing the spread of this variant is essential in addition to reducing the risk of exposure to Omicron.
One should be properly masked in public places. This variant has been classified as a variant of concern (VoC) by WHO. It is too early to say that it is not much severe though the initial reports say that Omicron is less severe as compared to Delta. This doesn’t mean that we do not take the required precautions. Omicron can affect vulnerable populations, means, people with underlying conditions, aged persons and kids. Even if we think that Omicron is not that lethal, then also we all need to take the same degree of precautions as we had been taking during the outbreak of the pandemic. So, the best way is to get vaccinated and follow the new norms of the society.
2. Symptoms of the Variant
At the start, the symptoms begin with body ache, generalised weakness, fatigue, headache and fever. Then a dry cough develops along with cold, runny nose and sneezing. Fever subsides in the first three days itself. In case the fever continues, then it is not a good sign. It points out towards moderate to severe infection and this needs close monitoring. This is the time when you need a medical advice and get tested for the variant. This can be done at Vivid Diagnostics and their doctors are always there for you.
3. How to Protect Against Omicron Variant
One has to make sure that you and your family is fully vaccinated and follows the new norms of life. It is confirmed that the Covid 19 vaccines which are approved by WHO are safe and effective. Vaccination protects you against the other widely circulating variants too. PCR and the antigen-based rapid diagnostic tests help in the investigation to detect the presence of Omicron. Wear a mask so that your nose and mouth remains covered when you step out of your house. Hands should be washed regularly to keep them clean. One should avoid touching the common surfaces. If it happens so, then use a sanitizer to clean your hands. Social distancing should be followed strictly. Keep the windows open so that your house remains airy and well ventilated. One should also avoid public or crowded places.
4. Kids Need to be Protected
Kids are our future; hence they need to be protected. Never share your fears with your child but do let them know about the virus and the variant so that the entire family can stay safe. They should also know about the precautions so that they can follow the new norms of Covid. This variant is affecting kids below 5 years of age in a novel way- a harsh, barking cough known as croup is developed. This type of cough occurs when the tiny airways get clogged due to inflammation. This makes breathing difficult causing a distinctive noise and thus results in croup. Such condition needs a doctor’s consultation and one can find expert paediatricians at Vivid Diagnostics who can take care of such kids and treat them properly so that they regain their health.
5. Prevent the Spread of Infection
It is the duty of everyone to prevent the spread of this so called variation of Covid 19, Omicron. Though not deadly like Covid 19 which has claimed lakhs of lives, it is dangerous, maybe a bit milder. It is more contagious than Delta. It has brought in fewer hospitalizations and is less likely to infect the lungs but one need to exercise caution if you feel that you are infected by this variant. The first and foremost thing should be to go for a PCR which is easily done at a lab. Vivid Diagnostics, a reputed name in the medical field provides PCR and RT-PCR to identify this lethal virus. Sometimes the virus gets severe in some patients and they face low oxygen levels and respiratory distress. In such conditions, the patients need to go for CT scan of the chest. This facility is available at Vivid Diagnostics in addition to all other types of CT Scans and various other services.
Once the test provides a positive report, isolate yourself from your family for 10 days and 3 days after recovery, so that they do not contact the virus. Know about all the symptoms of Omicron and contact a doctor. You can find experts at Vivid Diagnostics who can guide you to recover from the virus. Seek medical advice from the experts who can guide you to the right health facility. Isolating at the right time and taking precautions can prevent the spread of infection. Going for a RTPCR also assures that you don’t end up spreading it to more people due to negligence from your end. Use N95 mask if you cannot avoid stepping out of the house. A simple cloth mask or surgical mask may become the cause of spreading the virus, especially when you are coughing and possessing the symptoms of Omicron.
6. Omicron – Another Threat
Omicron is another threat after the drastic Delta. Being vaccinated can help you to protect yourself. Make sure that you and your family are fully vaccinated, means that you are vaccinated with both the doses. It is essential to receive both the doses in order to have the maximum protection from the virus. Vaccines serve as a reliable protection. Vaccination can reduce the infection rate and is the best way to keep everyone safe. This also reduces the risk of the variants that may emerge later.
In addition to that, one has to follow the new norms, like wearing a mask, maintaining social distance, having well ventilated and airy indoors and avoiding crowded spaces. These new norms have been effective in helping to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and also against other variants. So, definitely it will help this time too.
If you need to go for RT PCR, the services of Vivid Diagnostics are always available. Our technicians will collect the sample from your house. You need not step out of the house for the same. Our experienced Physicians and Paediatricians can also help and guide you in times of difficulty. Feel free to consult the experts at Vivid Diagnostics and avail their diagnosis and guidance.
