Should We Be Worried With Presence Of Omicron Variant In India?

The Omicron variant is the newest variant of the coronavirus. With its detection, there has been once again alerts issued all across the world. To prevent another deadly wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is crucial to take note of it and remain aware of all developments. In India too, once must know all verified facts that have been revealed for now.

What is the Omicron Variant?

As stated, the omicron variant is a variant of the coronavirus. A few weeks ago, it was first detected in South Africa. Since then, it has spread to over 35 countries. Cases have risen rapidly in South Africa after the detection although investigations are yet to conclude whether it is entirely from the new variant or not. It has also been found that the omicron variant might have originated in Europe before it was detected in South Africa. Since the variant is rapidly infecting people, it is important to keep track of it, as most nations have already understood. The investigation surrounding the variant is still in its early stages. This is why it is difficult to give conclusive statements. Nevertheless, it has not proven to be severely deadly till now. In a move that has been typical in the past two years, nations across the world have already started enforcing travelling restrictions and border controls. However, WHO officials have stated that it is simply not enough to rely on these measures as personal hygiene, social distancing regulations and such COVID measures should still be diligently undertaken by all.

Must Read: Status of Omicron Variant in India

Presence of the Omicron Variant in India

In India, too, Omicron cases have already been found. Over 20 cases have been recorded so far. These COVDI positive individuals have been found in five states across the country, with the latest cases found in Delhi. It has been mostly detected in people who had recently been abroad or people who have come in contact with such people. Travelers coming back from foreign countries are asked to undergo testing first. The spread of the new variant is also placing increased importance on tracking and tracing of all those who have been detected.

Should We Be Worried with Presence of Omicron Variant in India?

WHO recently declared that the Omicron variant might not be more severe than the existing Delta one and that the vaccines which have been approved for now, are still considered to work well enough against the Omicron. However, this is not an invitation to let your guards down. The variant has been detected only a few weeks ago which means that knowledge about it is extremely limited. This makes it crucial that everyone stays on high alert and takes the best possible measures to avoid an infection. No special instructions have been issued or special symptoms have been detected which makes it come to the point that existing precautions are required to be followed for now.

Endnotes

Right now, the most important things are to stay alert, informed, vaccinated and following all COVID regulations. Since we have been doing it for almost two years now, it should not be as much of a difficulty. It will only help us stay safe and healthy. The vaccine has been seen to reduce the number of severe cases and lower chances of death. Therefore, regardless of the variant, it is the best option right now, for the welfare of everyone.

Also Read: COVID-19 Vaccines And Omicron Variant: All You Need To Know

Disclaimer: This article is issued in the general public interest and meant for general information purposes only. Readers are advised not to rely on the contents of the article as conclusive in nature and should research further or consult an expert in this regard.