Reports of new COVID cases in India and across the world are causing fear in people’s minds. In India, 257 cases have been reported and the number is expected to increase.
What Are the Variants? How Do They Differ from Previous Variants?
New variants of the COVID-19 virus have been detected in India and other countries. These seem to be Omicron variants. They cause infection even in people who have protective antibodies .
The currently circulating JN1 variant’s descendants – LF.7 and NB1.8, which are causing a spike in South East Asia, are close relatives of the BA 2.86 variant, a lineage of the Omicron variant. In India, we are yet to have official data on what the circulating variant is.
The Virus Spreads the Same Way as Earlier COVID Variants
- Through airborne droplet contamination when a person talks, coughs, or sneezes.
- Lack of social distancing in crowded interior spaces.
- Touching contaminated articles.
Main Testing Options
- The RT-PCR test is precise but takes 1-2 days to give results.
- Rapid antigen tests, which, as the name implies, give quick results, but they are not as reliable as RT-PCR.
- Multiplex PCR tests, which test not only for COVID-19 but also other respiratory viruses.
It’s important to test the etiology (cause) of the viral infections in high-risk populations as the treatment varies for COVID, influenza A, B and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus).
Not all symptomatic patients require testing. Selected populations who are at risk with chronic medical conditions, pregnant women, elderly and obese individuals, and those on immunosuppressive medicines or those who have immunosuppressive conditions require testing and monitoring of symptoms.
Symptoms and Severity
Fever, throat pain, running nose, blocked nose, body pain and tiredness are all symptoms of the COVID-19 virus. However, the loss of taste and smell that was associated with the Delta variant is not widely reported. In some cases, diarrhoea and headache are also reported.
What Are the Red-Flag Signs?
If you have symptoms that persist for more than 3-5 days, or if the symptoms seem to worsen or new symptoms appear, you should consult your doctor.
If you are a high-risk patient with background medical conditions, obesity and age > 60 years, you should monitor your symptoms closely for an increase in infection as per your doctor’s advice. This could include monitoring respiratory rate, temperature and SpO2 levels (with finger pulse oximeter). Also, look out for feelings of confusion and worsening of symptoms.
Are There Any New Treatments Available?
Antivirals are available for COVID, but these are usually only used for patients with comorbid conditions who might get a severe infection. They are typically given in the early stages of the infection to lessen the replication of the virus.
Not all will be given antivirals and the treatment rendered depends on the individual patient and anticipated severity. Supportive therapies are preferred for symptomatic treatment.
Would India’s Immunity Have Decreased?
While there is no reason to worry or panic, it is always smart to be prepared and take precautions. The mutation of the virus affects our immunity, and hence, an infection with a mild form of the virus is possible.
What Are the Precautions to Be Taken?
The precautions remain the same – wearing a mask in public places and practicing hand hygiene. Those suffering from the virus should wear a mask and isolate to avoid infecting the people around them.
Vaccination for COVID
Do discuss with your doctor about boosters, especially if you are at high risk.
Precautionary Measures
- Do wear a mask that fits properly in all indoor gatherings.
- Hand washing frequently is a must.
- Do not go to crowded places if you have any symptoms of the virus.
- Talk to your doctor about your vaccination/booster.
- If you test positive, stay home and isolate yourself.
Is There a Reason to Panic Anticipating Another Pandemic?
Not at all. There is no reason to panic. Many of the infected recover. The high-risk population needs to be monitored.
The common notion that COVID is no longer there is wrong.
It’s endemic within the community and it’s important to stay vigilant and be prepared.
Prof. Dr. M. Harish
Consultant Interventional Pulmonologist, Respiratory & Chest Physician
Kauvery Hospital, Chennai
