Caution advised as new Covid strain threat looms large

CHANDIGARH: Masks are protective for both vaccinated and unvaccinated people, especially when a new Covid strain -- Omicron has emerged, feel PGI immunologists but many residents have turned negligent about masks. “There are chances that we might go back to square one. Data of genome sequence of the variant suggests that it is highly transmissible. It has over 30 mutations, which were only two in the Delta variant,” said Prof Sunil Arora, immunologist, PGI.He added, “There are ongoing studies to see if the variant will escape immunity produced by vaccines or produced by natural antibodies.”
Prof Arora explained that it is natural for viruses to mutate in the process to make them fit for survival. “But if there is vaccination, mutant variants are not produced as there is hardly any replication of the virus. Those who have not taken the second dose must realise the danger and get themselves the second jab. There have been studies which have seen that the first dose offered 48% efficacy while complete dose produced 61% protection.” He also warned people against travelling by public transport and asked them to avoid crowded places.
What epidemiologists recommend now is strict compliance with Covid appropriate behaviour. “Till it is known how virulent this strain will be, we need to wear masks and observe social distancing whether we are vaccinated or not,” said a public health expert.
With the global alert of Omicron, the city has started to enhance testing. “Testing gives an indication of the trend. Presently, we are doing about 1,500 cases and increase will indicate how positivity rate is progressing. Testing all persons in OPD, whether local or outside, will give better indication. If situation demands in due course, we may go for area-wise mass testing,” said UT health secretary Yashpal Garg.