In mid-November 2021, a new strain of COVID-19 known as the Omicron, variant was found in South Africa. Since then, Omicron instances have been discovered in many countries across the world.

The World Health Organization (WHO) utilizes the Greek alphabet to denote SARSCoV2, the virus that causes COVID-19, variants of concern. Omicron was allocated to the B.1.1.529 variant of concern on November 26, 2021. It has been designated as a variant of concern, based on evidence that it has numerous mutations that might affect how it acts.

Although, being fully vaccinated offers you a good protection, you should be on lookout for the following symptoms:

• Scratchy throat
• Body pain
• Runny nose and congestion
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Sneezing
• Night sweats
• Breathlessness

Tests to detect the Omicron variant

A probable omicron infection can be detected using the commonly used RT-PCR and Rapid Antigen testing. Following that, genetic sequencing is used to confirm the findings.

How to avoid getting it?

The most essential thing you can do is lower your chance of being infected. To ensure that you and your loved ones are safe, be sure to:

• Wear a mask that covers your mouth and nose. When putting on and taking off your mask, make sure your hands are clean.
• Maintain a physical distance of at least 1 metre between yourself and others.
• Wash hands thoroughly often.
• Increase your immunity

Here are the Do’s and Don’ts to follow:

Do’s

• Get both doses of vaccination (COVID-19 vaccinations that have been authorized by the World Health Organization are both safe and effective)
• Keep yourself hydrated
• Increase interior ventilation by opening windows.
• Regular health checkups (especially if you have co morbidities)
• Exercise/Walk for 30 minutes per day

Don’ts

• Overcrowded or poorly ventilated areas.
• Touching surfaces in public places
• Smoking
• Consuming Alcohol
• Panic

Conclusion:

Consult our doctor, Suvidha Hospital ECIL, in case you have any of the above listed symptoms. Do not panic but at the same time do not take Omicron for granted as well.