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Live Health

Omicron variant of COVID-19 more dangerous than the Delta variant

Omicron, the recently discovered Corona variant, has made governments across the world anxious. WHO has already declared that this Omicron variant is a variant of concern because of its rapid transmissible nature. There is no specific proof if the Omicron variant is a threat to those who are vaccinated.

Omicron cases are rising drastically in Botswana, South Africa. Initial cases of the Omicron variant are also detected in Israel and Belgium. Various countries have already posed travel restrictions due to the new variant’s rapid transmissible nature. WHO held an emergency meeting on the new COVID -19 variant Omicron and warned of its severe spread.

London, Geneva, and Jerusalem: The new variant of Omicron, discovered in South Africa, is shaking the world today. The ‘B1.1.529’ variant found in South Africa a few days ago has spread to its neighboring Botswana and Hong Kong. Recently, Omicron cases have been reported in Israel and Belgium as well. The world is shocked that this variant is infecting people who have taken two doses of the COVID vaccine..! When COVID cases are on the decline and survivors are on the prowl, there are concerns that this Omicron could lead to grief.

Experts are concerned that Omicron could be more dangerous than Delta due to high mutations. This potentially increases the transmissibility and leads to more severe symptoms. Various stock markets around the world fell on Friday with the effect of the new variant. Major indices in Europe and Asia also got surged. Shares of several airlines were also hit hard.

Also Read: Food Safety and the Coronavirus Disease 2019 – Covid-19

Is the new variant the reason for the increase in cases?

With an average of 200 corona infections recorded a day in South Africa, the number of cases has risen sharply for the past four to five days. Is the new variant the reason for this? The government is not giving any clarity on that. A man who recently came to Israel from Malawi was infected with B1.1.529. Two others are also suspected of having been affected. Medical professionals around the world are outraged that all these three people are fully vaccinated! Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett convened an urgent cabinet meeting to review the new variant in the wake of the latest developments. He further commented that their country was at the beginning of a state of emergency.

Do not come from there.

Israel has imposed sanctions on foreign travelers from all six countries, including South Africa. The UK announced on Friday that it was banning traffic from South Africa, Botswana, Lesotho, Ezwatin, Zimbabwe, and Namibia. However, the B.1.12929 variant has not yet been registered in the UK. Germany, Italy, Singapore, and Japan have also taken steps in this direction. EU member states have agreed to impose travel restrictions on immigrants from South Africa and other countries.

There are no such cases in India: INSACOG.

New Delhi: The Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG) has said that not a single case of a new variant has come to light in the country so far. They have advised all people to follow the COVID-19 rules. Central health sources said they were monitoring the new variant and conducting a high-level review.

The most dangerous type

The World Health Organization (WHO) has announced that the new variant will have severe contagious symptoms. It has been classified as a ‘Variant of Concern’ and named ‘Omicron’. The WHO Friday convened a special meeting with senior officials and experts to discuss B.1.1.529, which was identified as a “variant” under-monitoring “a few days ago.

What is the new variant?

Scientists have identified this COVID variant, which originated in South Africa, as ‘b.1.1.529’ is a new threat. Due to this, cases have come to light in South Africa and Hong Kong, Botswana, Israel, and Belgium.

What is the severity of the outbreak?

According to local medical experts, this variant is spreading rapidly in the province of Gauteng in South Africa. This variant is said to be responsible for 90% of the cases reported here. It seems that this variant may have spread to eight other provinces.

Why is it so scary?

Scientists have identified that B.1.1.259 is a combination of very unusual virus mutations. It is believed that it can disrupt the body’s immune system and spread widely. If this variant has the potential to fight the vaccines or spread more severely than the previous Delta. Then, once again, COVID-19 torment is inevitable.

What is the difference?

Senior scientists say that B.1.1.529 is more dangerous than the other variants seen since the onset of the corona outbreak. Scientists have analysed that there are 32 mutations in the virus-spike protein, which is double compared to the delta variant.

‘Omicron’ the dangerous

B.1.1.529 was calculated to spread faster than the other alarming viruses.

In South Africa, beta and delta variants account for less than 20% of all cases within a few days of their discovery. Within the same span of period, 90% of cases of factor B1.1.529 were reported.

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Live Health

New Omicron Variant- WHO Warns People To Follow Safety Precautions

The coronavirus is terrorizing humanity in another new form. A new variant called Omicron is breaking out in many countries, including South Africa. The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned Southeast Asian nations to be vigilant against this new type. This new Omicron variant virus is more dangerous than the Delta variant. Dr Poonam Khetrapal Sing, WHO Regional Director for South-East Asia, called for increased vigilance and strengthened public health systems. She also added that governments should expedite government’s vaccination process and take necessary steps to prevent the spread of the virus. She suggested that people conduct festivals and other ceremonies according to the COVID-19 rules.  One should follow physical distance to avoid crowded gatherings.

Safety Precautions

Following these precautions is a must.

Dr. Poonam Khetrapal Sing suggested that the respective countries with the new Omicron variant should increase surveillance on the new variant. She also stated that despite the decline in Coronavirus cases in many countries in the Southeast Asian region, the virus is booming in many countries worldwide, and concerns with new variants are a constant danger. She added that people should take necessary precautions and follow the COVID-19 restrictions to protect themselves from this variant and prevent its spread.

Also Read: Food Safety and the Coronavirus Disease 2019 – Covid-19

Countries should place closed surveillance on the new variant and information on its spread. Countries should assess the risk rate through international travel and take action accordingly to control the spread. To protect themselves from the virus and to prevent its spread, people are advised to wear masks. People should avoid physical contact, stay away from the crowd, wash their hands regularly and avoid dark, closed rooms. People who are not yet vaccinated should get their vaccination.

So far, 31% of the population in Southeast Asia has been fully vaccinated and 21% have been partially vaccinated. The remaining 48% of the population are still needed to be vaccinated. COVID -19 threat is higher among people who did not get vaccinated. Each and everyone should follow the COVID-19 rules even if they are vaccinated.

On the other hand, the Government of India is already on the alert for this new variant. Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a high-level meeting and warned the States to be vigilant. National and international travelers are advised to get fully vaccinated.

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Health Tips Live Health

6 Health Tips to Build Immunity This Winter

These days the temperatures are dropping gradually during nights, indicating the arrival of winter. The change in the season, arrival of winter also barges in several unannounced winter health problems like viral infections, cough, cold, and fevers. Colder and shorter days in the winters give us tough times by attacking our immune system, especially for children and elders. Hence improving our immunity system is very crucial to be healthy this winter.

By putting in little effort and following a few health tips, one can prepare and supercharge themselves and their family to enjoy healthy winters. Below I have listed out a few safety tips in winter by following which we can enjoy healthy and happy winter.

6 Health tips to follow this winter

  1. Follow a healthy and balanced diet

    Healthy diet has a significant impact on our health and immunity. By eating a healthy and well-balanced diet, one can strengthen their immune system and keep the body healthy. So, include fresh fruits and veggies along with whole grains, lean meats, fish, poultry, legumes, nuts and seeds, herbs, and spices in your regular diet to build strong immunity.

  2. Exercise regularly 

    During the cold weather of winter, people usually neglect to walk, jog, or do exercise. One should be active, keep themselves motivated and do physical exercises. Exercising regularly does not just boost our immunity but also helps to control blood pressure, obesity, and many other health issues. It is advised to exercise indoors during the winter season and choose activities like Yoga, dancing, and indoor exercises to keep you warm.

  3. Be hydrated

    In winters, we usually avoid drinking enough water, and also, the cold weather causes frequent urination increasing the risk of dehydration. Hence it is essential to drink a lot of water to be hydrated. You can also opt for herbal teas, which further help to keep your body warm in these winters.

  4. Cover up yourself

    In winters though the weather looks hot and sunny during the day, mornings and evenings are usually colder. Hence it is essential to cover yourself properly, especially during the mornings and evenings when you are outside. It is advised to wear woolen clothes to keep your body warm.

  5. Get enough Vitamin D

    Vitamin D is a very crucial element for our immunity system. Vitamin D does not just keep your bones and muscles healthy but also keeps you active during the chilly days. Step out of your house, be in the sun for at least 20 minutes a day to be healthy and happy.

  6. Pamper your skin

    In winters, the humidity in the air decreases, making our skin dry and itchy. It is imperative to take good care of our skin during the cold winters. Avoid taking long hot showers for healthy skin, exfoliate the skin regularly, and moisturize your skin frequently during these winters to keep it healthy and soft and avoid harsh winter effects on skin.

Along with the above tips, one should also schedule regular health check-ups, especially for the elders. This is mainly because the winters trigger the risk of several health issues like asthma, cold, flu, painful joints, cough, and even sore throat. Do not neglect your health, follow the above tips, be on your way to enjoy a healthier and happier winter.