What is it?
The Omicron variant, detected in South Africa in November 2021, is the latest among the COVID-19 variants. Omicron spreads faster than most of the SARS-CoV-2 virus infections. It increased the load on the medical infrastructures of countries. Presently, Omicron contributes to most new SARS CoV 2 infections. Although Omicron is known to cause milder disease, the symptoms can be significantly severe in individuals with previous infections and co-morbidities.
Mutation is a natural property of viruses. Each new strain of virus differs from others in severity and transmissibility. This explains the fast spread of Omicron infection compared with other COVID-19 variants. Omicron has over 50 mutations that make it less susceptible to the existing vaccines. It does not undermine the need for vaccination. Vaccination reduces the spread of Coronavirus infections and reduces the severity of symptoms in infected people.
Symptoms of Omicron COVID Variant
The Omicron variant, detected in South Africa in November 2021, is the latest among the COVID-19 variants. The symptoms of a new variant of corona are similar to those caused by previous strains. The severity and type of symptoms depend upon the individual’s vaccination status, age, and presence of other health conditions. The history of the past coronavirus infection is also a crucial factor affecting the severity of infections. The following symptoms can be present with varying degrees of severity in patients with Omicron infection:
- Sore throat with scratchiness
- Nasal congestion
- Breathing difficulty
- Low back pain
- Muscle pain
- Fever
- Chills
- Cough
- Feeling of tiredness
The classic Coronavirus symptoms of loss of smell and taste are less common in patients with the new COVID variant infection.
Testing for Omicron
The RT-PCR (real-time reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction) test is the gold standard among all testing options to detect Coronavirus variants, including Omicron. Experts suggest the genome sequencing method to achieve 100% success in detecting sub-variants of Omicron like BA.2. The RT-PCR test is the fastest and most precise alternative to other tests. It is the most extensively used laboratory test globally to detect the presence of coronavirus variants.
The RT-PCR test involves sample collection from the individual’s throat or nose. The test separates the RNA component from the sample by using special chemicals. The RNA undergoes reverse transcription to form viral DNA. The RT-PCR machine creates multiple copies of DNA to detect fluorescence through several cycles. The total number of cycles to attain a specific level of fluorescence helps determine the severity of infection. The RT-PCR test ensures faster and more reliable results within a few hours without the possibility of contamination errors.
How to prevent Omicron virus infection
Vaccination continues to be a valuable preventive measure against Omicron or other strains of coronavirus. Vaccines are also helpful for the reduction of the severity of COVID-19 infection. Thanks to the ongoing scientific research, we have many vaccines to reduce the chances of getting infected by the Omicron variant. Two doses of vaccines can offer effective immunity against multiple strains of COVID-19, including Omicron.
The following preventive steps are important despite vaccination with a booster dose:
- Covering your nose and mouth: To protect yourself and those around you, wear a mask that covers your nose and mouth. A face mask is important while visiting public places. An N-95 Mask is advisable to get better protection because it effectively blocks the passage of coronavirus.
- Hand hygiene: Frequently washing hands with soap is a proper preventive measure to keep Omicron at bay. Avoid touching your nose and mouth to reduce the chances of infections.
- Cleaning surfaces: Sanitise doorknobs, steering wheel, tables, mobile phones, chairs, and other objects that you touch often. Make use of digital payment methods to avoid touching currency notes.
- Social distancing: Wearing a mask does not mean you can mix with crowds. A six feet distance is crucial to reduce the possibility of coronavirus transmission.
Cost
Thanks to a considerable increase in the availability of test kits, the SARS COV-2 RT-PCR test cost is on the decline. The COVID test cost is less if you visit a nearby lab to give your swab sample instead of choosing a home collection service. You can find the test cost by searching for COVID-19 test cost near me. The average COVID test cost in India ranges between Rs 350/- and Rs 500/-.
Agilus Diagnostics, a subsidiary of Fortis Healthcare Limited
