The COVID -19 Omicron variant has now been detected in several countries around the world. As per the reports, it is spreading more rapidly than other variants. It is likely that Omicron will outpace the Delta variant as far as transmission is concerned. This new variant is caused by infection with the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) virus strain.
New variants like Omicron India is a reminder that the COVID-19 pandemic is far from over. So, it is essential that people get the vaccine when available to them. And, continue to follow existing guidance on preventing the spread of the covid virus. For example, physical distancing, wearing masks, regular handwashing and keeping indoor areas well ventilated.
Omicron Variant Symptoms
Symptoms of Omicron are classified into most common symptoms, less common symptoms & serious symptoms.
Most common symptoms of covid 19 omicron variant are fever, cough, tiredness, loss of taste or smell. Less common symptoms are sore throat, headache, aches, pains and diarrhea. Also, a rash on skin, discolouration of fingers or toes, and, red or irritated eyes. Serious symptoms include difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, loss of speech or mobility, or confusion or chest pain. In case you have symptoms, you must get it examined at the best diagnostics near me.
Testing to Detect Omicron Variant Symptoms
In the current scenario, widely used PCR and antigen-based rapid diagnostic tests continue to detect infection of COVID-19, including covid omicron variant. And, NAAT and antigen tests can only tell you if you have a current infection.
COVID-19 Viral Testing Tool helps to determine what kind of tests to look for. Other set of tests would be needed to establish if your infection was caused by Omicron. Self-test kits can be used at home or anywhere for rapid results. You must get tests done at the best diagnostics centre in Hyderabad.
If your self-test has a positive result, you must stay home or isolate for 10 days. Also, you must wear a mask if you have contact with others, and call your healthcare provider. If you have any queries related to your self-test results, you must call your healthcare provider or public health department.
Treatment
COVID Vaccines are considered to be the best public health measure to protect people from omicron variant severity. Also, minimize, the likelihood of new variants emerging. COVID-19 vaccines are highly effective at preventing severe illness and death to a great extent.
Currently investigations are going on about how protected fully vaccinated people will be against infection, hospitalization, and death. It is recommended by CDC to everyone who is 5 years and older to protect themselves from COVID-19 by getting fully vaccinated. It also recommended that people above 18 years and older get a booster shot after completing primary COVID -19 vaccination series.
You are eligible for a booster shot at 5 months after completing the Pfizer-BioNTech primary series. Also, 6 months after completing the Moderna primary series, 2 months after the initial J&J / Janssen vaccine, and 9 months after completing 2 doses of Covishield / Covaxin / Sputnik. However, children between 15-18 years of age are only eligible for the Covaxin COVID-19 vaccine.
Apart from the vaccine, Corticosteroids and IL6 Receptor Blockers will still be effective for managing patients with severe COVID-19.
Precaution against the Covid Omicron Variant
As a precautionary measure, one of the most essential things you can do is to reduce your risk of exposure to the virus. To protect yourself and your loved ones, you must follow certain crucial steps: -
- Do not forget to wear a mask covering nose and mouth properly.
- Clean your hands while putting and removing your mask.
- Maintain physical distance of at least 1 meter from others.
- Stay away from poorly ventilated or crowded spaces.
- Keep windows open to improve ventilation indoors.
- Wash your hands frequently.
Current omicron variant vaccine is expected to protect against severe illness, and deaths due to infection with the covid variant. However, people who are fully vaccinated can also get infections.
There is increasing omicron variant in India cases as per the current reports. Therefore, it has become essential to take all the necessary actions for protection against the covid infection. Getting vaccinated and taking precautions such as avoiding crowded spaces, keeping your distance from others and wearing a mask are highly critical in helping to prevent the spread of new variant of COVID -19.
In case, you notice any symptoms, you must not hesitate to reach out to a diagnostic centre for undergoing Covid RT PCR Profile test. This will enable you to take necessary treatment against the disease.
