The Omicron variant is a variant of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. As of December 2021, it is the newest variant. It was first reported to the World Health Organization (WHO) from South Africa on 24 November 2021.On 26 November 2021, the WHO designated it as a variant of concern and named it "Omicron", the fifteenth letter in the Greek alphabet.The variant has an unusually large number of mutations, several of which are novel (see § Mutations) and a significant number of which affect the spike protein targeted by most COVID-19 vaccines at the time of the discovery of the Omicron variant. This level of variation has led to concerns regarding its transmissibility, immune system evasion, and vaccine resistance, despite initial reports indicating that the variant causes less serio
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These are questions that were curated questions from an apartment community in Bangalore in May 2021. These are responses from two eminent Doctors. That said, this is NOT to be construed as "formal" medical advice but just practical tips/guidelines/pointers for common but confusing questions. As always, please do a personal consultation with your Doctor for any personal/direct medical guidance and treatment since your situation will depend on your age, comorbidities, past medical history, allergies history, etc. This information is offered on a best-effort basis so it can be of use. If someone is asymptomatic, is there an easy way to tell other than RT-PCR test? What precautions can be taken to prevent asymptomatic spread?● No there is no way to tell other than an RT PCR test.● No one ...
Read MoreHOW LONG DOES THE IMMUNITY LAST? Coronavirus is an infection that has caused a global pandemic, and gaining immunity against it is the only way forward. Vaccines against COVID-19 are being developed by scientists around the world and hopefully, successful coronavirus vaccination will prevent the spread of this disease. Recent news from HongKong has now questioned the efficacy of the developing vaccines, and whether they can prevent re-infection. It is important to know the difference between a relapse and reinfection, how often it happens, and measures people need to take to protect themselves when they are out in public. This helps to improve treatment procedures and get a better understanding of the novel Coronavirus. Experts suggest this is not a cause for concern a...
Read MoreThe coronavirus outbreak may have you feeling lonely, isolated, stressed, and anxious. Whether you’re social distancing or required to stay home, these tips may help you feel better. Be social. Socialization is key, especially if you feel isolated. Feeling connected to others wards off loneliness and stress. First, swap the term “social distancing” for “physical distancing.” Remind yourself that we’re all still connected, even if we’re apart. Next, consider it “distant socializing.” You can still get together with friends and family online or on your phone. There are apps that make face-to-face conversations easy. Send emails and texts. Get in touch on social media. Pick up the phone and say hi. Look online for religious services and cultural events. Many organ...
Read MoreBy understanding how coronavirus spreads, you can take the right steps so you don't get sick and infect others. Person-to-Person Transmission Experts believe the virus that causes COVID-19 spreads mainly from person to person. There are several ways this can happen: Droplets or aerosols. When an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, droplets or tiny particles called aerosols carry the virus into the air from their nose or mouth. Anyone who is within 6 feet of that person can breathe it into their lungs.Airborne transmission. Research shows that the virus can live in the air for up to 3 hours. It can get into your lungs if someone who has it breathes out and you breathe that air in. Experts are divided on how often the virus spreads through the airborne route and how mu...
Read MoreWhy are people testing COVID negative despite having symptoms right now? COVID-19 cases are rapidly surging across the nation, with the number of fresh cases crossing the 3-lac mark recently. However, despite having symptoms, some people are getting misdiagnosed and testing negative for the virus. Can you be COVID+ with a negative test? With numbers only expected to rise further, testing mishaps and delays are being witnessed in huge numbers. The delayed diagnosis and false negatives could not only lead to poor management of the disease during the much-scary second wave of coronavirus but forcing many to suffer from complications and only get accurate detection with follow-up tests. Here's why this is concerning Given that RT-PCR test right now are considered to...
Read MoreMaking sure you are eating a diet high in immune-boosting nutrients is one way you can take an active role in maintaining your health and wellness. Your body uses and absorbs nutrients more efficiently when they come from whole food sources like fruits and vegetables, rather than processed foods or supplements. Getting a variety of these foods and nutrients in your diet is essential compared to focusing on just one or two in large quantities. The more colorful your plate is with a variety of choices from the list below, the better. 1. Vitamin C – Citrus Fruits & Greens Consuming foods high in vitamin C such as grapefruits, oranges, tangerines, sweet red pepper, broccoli, strawberries, kale, and kiwifruit are thought to increase white blood cell production, which...
Read MoreHave you wondered what a CT score in a pathological test for COVID-19 stands for? What does it indicate? Here's how to understand how the CT Score of Chest scans is different from the CT Score of RT-PCR tests. Chest Scan The COVID-19 pandemic which began in late 2019 and spread through the year 2020 to the rest of the world from Wuhan in China was initially called Chinese flu by many people. At China's protestations, the word "Chinese virus" or "Wuhan Virus" were eliminated by the WHO which named it COVID-19.Then came a plethora of medical and non-medical terms. One heard of "ground-glass-effect chest X-Rays" and mRNA vaccines, RT-PCR tests and CT Values etc. COVID-appropriate behaviour meant you maintain "social distance" and "quarantine" when tested positive, etc. N...
Read MoreNew Delhi: Ever since the outbreak of coronavirus last year, social media is abuzz with bizarre treatments that have no valid scientific proof or logical reasoning. Currently, there are several claims on social media that steam inhalation can kill coronavirus. But, wait. Is that true? Does it really kill the virus? Well, let’s find out. What is a steam inhalation? For the unversed, steam inhalation is one of the most widely used home remedies to soothe and open the nasal passages and get relief from the symptoms of a cold or sinus infection. Fact check on whether steam inhalation kills coronavirus or not. Does Steam Inhalation Help You In Fighting Covid-19? It is important to shed light on the fact that neither World Health Organization (WHO) nor U.S. Centers for Di...
Read MoreQ- What is the best way to protect us and our families from COVID-19 Now? The best way to protect you and your families from COVID-19 is Get vaccinated as soon as you are eligibleWear a face maskMaintain at least six feet of distance between yourself and othersAvoid large gatherings and close contact with people who are sickMinimize touching your eyes, nose, and mouthStay home when you are sickCover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trashClean frequently touched objects and surfaces regularlyWash your hands often with soap and water Click here to learn more. Q- Should we get vaccinated? Is the vaccine effective? Yes, it is recommended that you get vaccinated. As a result of forming an immune response to the corona...
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