Everything About Omicron, How To Protect Yourself From The New Strain

Just when we all thought that Covid-19 was about to reach its ends, or at least become more tolerable for the general population, another variant arises and becomes a new threat to mankind.

Scientists are learning more about Covid-19 and stepping up to understand the virus. However, together with the new developments in fighting the pandemic, new variants of the virus are appearing – Omicron -one of the most recent and most alarming strains of the Covid-19 strain at present.

The Omicron variant is a new Covid-19 mutation discovered in South Africa and Botswana. This new discovery caused great concern for the World Health Organization almost days after its discovery.

Why Does the Covid-19 Virus Mutate?

Viruses change. Their genetic codes are constantly mutating, creating a change in how they work and how it affects their hosts. Most mutations do not have significant effects on their hosts. However, some can also cause high risks and can be a threat to be concerned about.

Viruses need a host to survive and replicate. In the case of the Covid-19 virus, they need humans to bind with to allow their genetic makeup to enter the human cells. The mutation depends on how the host reads the genetic code of the virus and how it replicates it. A piece of the code changes as the virus leaves the host for another host. This is how mutation works.

With the emergence of new variants of the virus comes numerous concerns and questions. How transmissible is this new variant? Will it cause severe illnesses to its hosts? Will the current vaccines available work against these mutations?

The Omicron variant showed an increased risk of reinfection compared to other variants of the Covid-19 virus. It is also more transmissible. Although no records of deaths have been associated with this new variant, scientists are working fast to learn more about this new variant.

How To Protect Yourself Against Covid-19’s Omicron Variant?

Although cases of the Omicron variant are still quite a few, it is important to be one step ahead of the latest information about the new virus to be able to protect yourself against it. Here are some tips you can follow.

Get Vaccinated

Vaccines do not offer 100% protection against the virus, together with its mutations. However, they can help prevent experiencing severe symptoms of the disease. Severe symptoms may prevent prolonged hospitalization and in some cases, death due to the complications that come together with the virus. If you are not yet vaccinated, check with your local health providers and community clinics to get one. Check for boosters available in your area and if you are qualified to get one.

Continue Practicing Preventive Measures, Especially in Public

Continue avoiding crowded areas as much as possible. Wear masks when going out in the public or in public indoor settings. Regardless of your vaccination status, it is still important to practice social distancing. The less this virus has access to hosts. the better in preventing its spread.

Frequent Handwashing

Good personal hygiene and constant hand washing prevent the spread of the Covid-19 virus as well as many other diseases. Always have alcohol or hand sanitizers readily available.

Get Tested When You Feel Symptoms

Getting medical help as soon as possible can help minimize the effects of the symptoms of the virus. There are two types of tests to determine whether you are currently infected with Covid-19. The NAAT and the antigen tests are your first step in determining whether you need medical intervention for Covid-19. Additionally, further tests are needed to be able to determine if you are affected by the Omicron variant. Visit your local health department for more information on testing.

Prevention Is Key

As cliche as it may sound, prevention is your best bet to protect yourself from the Omicron variant and other mutations of the Covid-19 virus. The less you expose yourself to people or circumstances that put you at a high risk of getting sick with the virus, the better. Be mindful of the health advice and protocols in lieu of Covid-19  in your area.

Improve your immune system with vitamins, exercise, and better dining options. Additionally, practice good hygiene at all times, whether outside or inside your home. 

Reducing the transmission of the virus and getting vaccinated are two of the proven ways to effectively prevent further mutations of the virus, severe illness, and death from the Covid-19 virus.