Omicron – Covid-19 new variant: Everything you need to know about

The

World Health Organization classified Omicron

as a COVID variant of concern in late November. And, right now, the number of positive omicron cases is increasing across the globe. Observations so far have confirmed that the transmissibility of the omicron variant is of real concern.

Omicron became the cause of the vast majority of new COVID-19 cases across South Africa in less than three weeks. For comparison, the delta variant, which wreaked havoc last summer took about three months to surpass 50% of total cases once initially detected.

Early findings suggest that the omicron variant causes less severe disease, but follow-up studies are needed to confirm this.

Unfortunately, it’s now also evident that the two most commonly available antibodies in the majority of the vaccines are much less effective against the omicron variant.

The best way to stay safe from COVID-19 — the omicron variant included — is to be aware of your surroundings and community spread in your area, as well as exercise the COVID-19 precautions that we know work, including:

•       Getting Vaccinated 
•       Wearing a mask 
•       Social distancing in public spaces
•       Avoiding crowds 
•       Washing your hands and avoiding touching your face

Even if you’re vaccinated, you should still be wearing a mask in public or around vulnerable loved ones and avoiding crowds right now.

New variant or not, the most pressing issue is that far too many people are still unvaccinated. We know the vaccines are safe, effective and our best defense against the virus. Even if you’ve had COVID-19, get vaccinated.

The immunity offered by vaccination is stronger and lasts longer than natural immunity. Plus, data shows that unvaccinated adults are twice as likely to get reinfected with COVID-19 than those who get vaccinated after recovering from their illness.

Whether you’re hesitant about COVID-19 vaccines or incorrectly assume you can’t get COVID-19 twice, make sure you’re reading trusted information about the vaccines and reach out to your doctor if you have any unanswered questions.

In the meantime, Accurex, in its constant endeavor to contribute to the well-being of the nation and mankind in general, has developed the COVID products range to help deal with the pandemic. The range includes face masks and sanitizers to help prevent the spread of the infection, as well as Rapid Antigen tests and VTM kits to effectively diagnose the infection once contracted.

Accurex Biomedical

Accurex Biomedical Pvt. Ltd. is an Indian manufacturer and marketer which provides accurate and quality solutions in the diagnostic industry.

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