COVID-19, the viral disease that shook the whole world in its both the phases 1 ad 2. People all over the world was locked in their houses for months to only stop the chain spread. From healthcare and education to economy and business- hardly we can name any sector that hasn’t borne the brunt of the devastating pandemic.

However, again COVID-19 is in the news and this time because of its new mutant variant found in South Africa that is OMICRON. 

What is this ‘Omicron’ strain?

According to the scientists, this B.1.1.529 ‘Omicron’ variant, is a newly identified strain of Coronavirus with 30 plus different mutations in the Covid-19 spike protein which makes the process of it’s transmission easier.

Presence of these multiple mutations on the spike protein facilitates the virus’s entry into the body with more ease making the strain more dangerous. The effects and their impact are still being studied.

Apparently, the variant also seems to possess immunity against the available Covid-19 vaccines, which aggravates the threat.

First Found………

The newly identified strain is believed to have developed from the southern part of Africa. According to WHO, the first known case caused by the B.1.1.529 strain was confirmed on November 9, 2021. 

After South Africa, Omicron has now been seen in travelers to Belgium, Hong Kong and Israel as well as in other countries of southern Africa.

What are the possible symptoms?

The symptoms are largely similar with the cases caused by the other variants. The most severe symptoms of this variant include the following.

• Difficulty in breathing / shortness of breath

• Loss of speech or mobility

• Chest pain

While, the common and moderate symptoms include, tiredness, sore throat, headache, aches and pains, diarrhea, red or irritated eyes, rashes, discoloration of fingers and toes.

Several medical experts, including many from the World Health Organization (WHO), have requested people to abstain from any unnecessary overreaction and panic as the salient characteristics and the magnitude of possible threats associated with this news strain are still under investigation.

Last Words….

The new found variant OMICRON, has once again proved how unpredictable and resilient the novel coronavirus can be. And we really need to be much prepared only to prevent the devastation that happened in 2020 and 2021. 

The most important part of our preparation against COVID-19 and its variants, is getting vaccinated completely as soon as possible. So I request if you are reading and have not taken your vaccine still, kindly book your slot or visit near by vaccination center and get your vaccination done today! 

Stay Informed! Stay Healthy! Stay Happy!

Thank you!