All the countries are trying unitedly to normalize the unforeseen circumstances caused by the coronavirus. But in the meantime, now new variants of coronavirus have started wreaking havoc in the world. The arrival of this variant has created a stir in all the countries. All the countries have become alert to avoid this new variant. According to scientists, this variant is more dangerous than the Delta Plus variant.
Preface: -
This new variant (coronavirus) was confirmed first in South
Africa. Omicron is the (B.1.1.529 variant, fifteenth letter of Greek alphabets)
means a “Variant of Concern” as reported by WHO because
of its ability to mutate and replicate. On 24th November, the first
patient was found infected in South Africa. This variant has shown many
mutations, significantly more than 30 on the viral spike protein, which is the
critical target of the immune response. According to WHO, it can affect the
corona epidemic on a large scale due to more mutations in Omicron variants.
Symptoms found in the patient: -
Most common
symptoms:
- Fever
- Cough
- Tiredness
- loss of taste or smell
Less Common symptoms:
- Sore throat
- Headache
- Diarrhea
- Rashes
- Tiredness
- Aches and pains
- Redness in the eyes
- Discoloration of the hands and toes
Severe symptoms:
- Chest Pain
- Voice movement, mobility
- Shortness of breath
How to avoid Omicron? : -
- Follow the guidelines and protocols of COVID Appropriate Behavior.
- Get vaccinated when the turn comes. Follow local guidance about vaccination.
- Maintain a safe distance from others (at least 1 meter)
- Wear a mask in public, especially indoors or when physical distancing is not possible.
- Avoid crowded places, poorly ventilated, indoor locations, and avoid prolonged contact with others.
- Ventilation is essential: Open windows when indoors to increase the amount of outdoor air.
- Cover your nose and mouth with your bent elbow or a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
- If anyone has a fever, cough, and difficulty breathing, seek medical attention. Call in advance so your healthcare provider can direct you to the suitable health facility
- Stay home if you feel unwell.
Conclusion: -
The government continues to take various steps for immunization, including booster doses for eligible groups to target those most at risk. Apart from this, taking social measures to prevent crowding and gathering of people in confined spaces. We should also follow the Covid-19 norms issued by WHO and our government so that we can break the chain of this virus as soon as possible because “Prevention is better than cure”.
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