Although the number of people who previously tested positive for COVID-19 and have now contracted its newer version, Omicron, is around 213, health experts warn and say it is time to reconsider strategy and once again It’s time to impose some restrictions. reach the threshold level.
“The World Health Organization (WHO) has already said that Omicron is spreading faster than the delta version. So we need to be more careful, especially when it is said that the months of January and February are crucial for India, when cases may increase in a short period of time,” warned experts.
According to the latest estimates in the US, Omicron accounts for 73% of infections, with New York alone accounting for 92% of cases.
PV Sudhakar, District COVID-19 Special Officer and Principal of Andhra Medical College, said, “Predictions are that we may see a terrible January and February.”
“Most importantly, from what we’ve seen so far, the new version is not much lighter than the delta version,” Dr Sudhakar said.
Center’s advice
The central government, in an advisory, has already asked state governments to activate their critical facilities and strategy boardrooms, and listed out several containment and containment measures.
The Center has asked the state government to step up its testing and vaccination drive, and advised it to reintroduce some restrictions, including a night curfew in public places and sealing of gatherings.
A senior doctor at King George’s Hospital (KGH) said, “The time has come for the state government to take steps in that direction.”
“If one has been vaccinated for both jabs and also taken a booster dose, he/she can survive a mild infection. There is no study that proves that people who have been vaccinated cannot be re-infected,” Dr. Sudhakar said.
“Those who have not been vaccinated are at higher risk because the newer variant is just as dangerous as Delta, especially if they have risk factors, underlying diseases, or immunosuppressed conditions,” warns Dr. Sudhakar.
main defense
Dr. Sudhakar said, “The main protection is vaccination, and it is even better if a booster dose is taken.”
He said that considering the present scenario, the booster dose should be considered as the third jab and the fourth one should be called the booster dose.
“Many medical conditions and medications compromise a vaccine’s ability to mount an adequate immune response. Therefore proper planning of vaccination with the treating physician is important.”
“We have a formidable enemy, an exhausted workforce in the health sector, and the public unwilling to vaccinate and follow COVID-19 protocols. These work in favor of Omicron. Hence, the time has come for us to vigorously immunize, implement restrictions and strictly follow protocols, including wearing of KN95 masks,” said Dr Sudhakar.
No gathering on December 31st?
It is learned that the district administration and the city police are contemplating closing the Beach Road and other public places on December 31 and also banning gatherings in public places including hotels.
But sources say that it is still in the planning stage as the instructions from the government are awaited.
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