Omicron COVID Variant Symptoms, Cause, Precaution & Treatment
The new variant of the novel Coronavirus, omicron was first identified in South Africa on 24th November 2021. Numerous studies are being carried out on this new variant to identify its features so that it can be controlled. Most of the aspects of this new omicron variant are unknown, however, in this article, you will find detailed information about whatever is known to the scientist till date.
What is Omicron?
The newest mutated form of covid-19 has been named omicron by World Health Organisation. In scientific terms, it has been named B.1.1.529. WHO has declared special concern on this new variant as it poses as more infectious than the previous ones. After this new variant of omicron, South Africa saw a steep rise in the number of infected individuals. Publications have made it clear that omicron has multiple number of mutations in its genome making it a “variant of concern”.
Symptoms of Omicron
The most common symptoms of corona new strain are fever, cough, loss of taste and smell, lethargy. Sore throat, headache, rashes on the skin, diarrhoea, eye irritation are some of the lesser documented symptoms of corona new strain omicron.
People who are severely affected with omicron might experience trouble in breathing, shortness of breath, chest pain, partial paralysis, inability to speak. If you are facing any of these symptoms you should consider consulting a doctor and getting tested for covid as soon as possible so that you can get started on the treatment.
A few frequently asked questions are answered below to mitigate your queries.
Is Omicron more transmissible?
Several researches are going on and the new strain is being tested against the previously known strains but no such evidence has been brought to the limelight that proves Omicron strain being more transmissible that the previous ones.
Are children more susceptible to omicron variants?
No researches have solid proof of this statement. So, it is wise to say that the answer is not conclusive. However, it has been observed that unvaccinated people indulging in the crowded area are more prone to the new variant of Covid-19. Do not believe in false information flying around, try to follow genuine websites for proper information.
Are reinfections occurring?
Researches are limited but it has been observed that previous covid infections do not guarantee that you will not get affected by the new omicron variant. Only vaccinations have been proven to decrease the impact of Covid-19 on individuals being affected.
Is omicron detected by RT-PCR methods?
RT-PCR methods can definitely confirm if a person is infected by any strain of covid-19. But it is not possible to confirm if the strain in omicron, delta or any other variant of Covid.
What is the incubation period of omicron?
The incubation period of the omicron is same as the previous variants. It takes 3-4 days or even a week to reveal the symptoms. The symptoms may last a few days but the infection can persist up to 14 days or more depending upon the infection.
Precautions to ensure safety
Covid is a disease that is difficult to beat but not impossible. Listed below are a few precautions you must maintain in order to remain safe.
- Always wear a mask with triple layer and make sure to clean it every time you get home.
- Keep your hands clean and avoid touching your face and mouth as much as possible.
- Make sure to take the vaccine on your turn. You can get registered for your turn with the help of Arogya setu vaccine registration.
- If you have already taken your first dose then take your second dose so that you and your family is protected from the deadly impact of omicron.
- Try not to indulge in crowded places in small spaces.
- Maintain proper ventilation whenever possible.
- Be updated on news and updates of Covid-19.
- Don’t get too much worried and let the darkness take a toll on you.
Vaccination certificate
If you are vaccinated you should make sure to keep a copy of your vaccination certificate with you. Many places are restricting entry to only vaccinated individuals. You can download the certificate with your beneficiary reference id. Now you may ask, what is the beneficiary reference id? It is a 13 digit code that is sent to your registered mobile number.
Treatment
Antiviral drugs like sotrovimab, paxlovid has decreased the chances of hospitalization and are going well in the trials. You should not take any medications without the reference form a doctor. So, if you are facing any of these symptoms you should immediately visit a doctor.
We hope this information will be helpful in times of dire need. We will advise you to step out of your home only if absolutely necessary. Avoid the crowds as much as possible and wear a fitted mask.
Make sure to check out 7 self-care tips for the flu
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