After all, how dangerous is Omicron as compared to the delta variant, what are the ways to avoid it?

Recently, the dangerous variant of the coronavirus found in South Africa, Omicron, has raised the concern of the whole world. This new variant of the coronavirus is being said to be the most dangerous variant ever. Omicron was first identified in South Africa, but now this dangerous variant of the coronavirus has spread its feet in Europe and Asia. After this, this variant has created panic in the whole world. This new variant is said to be spreading rapidly and the disturbing thing is that it can also infect people who have already been infected. Let us know what is the opinion of Dr PN Arora (Managing Director Yashoda Hospital) in this matter.

What is this new variant and how is it more lethal than others?

1- This is a new variant of the coronavirus. It is named Omicron (B.1.1.529). This variant has a total of 50 types of mutations. It has 30 spike proteins. This feature of the variant makes it more contagious and dangerous. The point of concern is the 50 mutations of the variant. The World Health Organization has described it as more dangerous than the delta variant.

2- Actually, the mutation is like a bunch and it is completely different from the variant that spread earlier. Along with this, it has 30 spike proteins. The spike protein is the part in the internal structure of the virus, where the vaccine works. If the spike protein is different, then there is a possibility of the vaccine not being effective on it.

3- Think of it this way, the delta variant that caused havoc in India had two mutations in the receptor-binding domain, whereas this variant has 10 types of mutations. This is the part of the virus that comes in contact with the cells of our body. Therefore, this variant is believed to be more contagious. However, such information is yet to come about this virus. But the way it has increased the cases of corona in South Africa, its character can be understood.

How can the outbreak of this new variant be avoided?

By being careful, alert, and alert, we can avoid any dangerous infectious disease. Be it the Delta variant or the Omicron. By knowing the facts and taking the necessary precautions, you can keep yourself and those around you safe. For this, completely follow the advice given by your local health department to the guideline issued by the central government. Don't ignore it at all. Whenever we go away from the guideline, the risk of getting infected will increase.

What is the advice for people in the high-risk category?

High-risk patients including transplant patients, people suffering from serious diseases including blood pressure, sugar, heart disease, liver need to be more careful and alert. All of them must follow CAB i.e. Covid Appropriate Behavior. The use of masks and the distance of two yards must be taken care of. This can be dealt with only through Covid Appropriate Behavior. There are important precautions like wearing masks, physical distancing, closing, or limiting public gatherings.

What steps has the government taken regarding Omicron?

1- As soon as the alarm bell of this Omicron variant of Corona was heard, the Government of India has issued new guidelines regarding this. According to this guideline, the RTPCR test has been made mandatory for travelers coming from countries affected by Omicron. Not only this, passengers will not be allowed to leave the airport until the result of the test of the given sample is not received.

2- Apart from this, the passengers found positive in the test will be quarantined and they will be treated according to the protocol. Apart from this, samples of the person found positive will also be sent for genome sequencing. Passengers will be able to leave the airport when the report is negative, but they will have to remain in isolation at home for at least seven days. With this, on the eighth day of returning to India, he will have to get his corona tested again. It will be mandatory to follow all these guidelines issued by the central government.

What are the characteristics of the Omicron variant?

The Omicron variant has not yet shown any unusual or new symptoms. This means that the Omicron infection is showing the same symptoms as the previous variant. Common symptoms include fever, cough, loss of smell or taste, sore throat, headache, breathing problems, chest pain, etc. Some patients may also be asymptomatic due to the Omicron variant. According to the World Health Organization, the help of the PCR test already being used to test Omicron is being taken. However, several labs have indicated that one of the three target genes is not being detected in this PCR test.

Is the vaccine or booster dose effective?

Nothing can be said about how effective this vaccine is against Omicron. However, vaccine manufacturing companies have started their preparations. This is a positive step. According to some media reports, Omicron has infected many people who have had vaccines or booster doses, but this is still a matter of research. Things will become more clear in the times to come. For now, the focus should be on vaccination.