Coronavirus: Do's and Don'ts to protect yourself against top 5 COVID symptoms this Diwali

Diwali festivities have begun and after over two years, many are all set to celebrate the festival of lights with full fervour and enthusiasm. However, with new emerging variants, experts have warned against a possible fresh COVID wave in the coming days.

A new variant called 'Omicron spawn', technically BA.5.1.7 and BF 7 were found in the inner autonomous region of Mongolia in China, which are said to be highly infectious and transmissible. Reportedly, the first case of BF.7 in India was detected by Gujarat Biotechnology Research Centre.

In light of such concerning events and occurrences, Dr N.K. Arora, chairman, National Technical Advisory Group of Immunization (NTAGI), said, "The next two to three weeks are crucial. Covid-19 is still around, and new variants are being reported in different parts of the world. Obviously, we cannot remain unscathed from them. So, we need to be careful as festivals are a few days ahead."

That said, this Diwali, do not let your guard down and know all about the symptoms and precautionary measures you can do to protect yourself against COVID-19.

Also read: First case of Omicron's sub variant BF.7 found in India; Here's all you need to do to cut the risk

According to the UK's Zoe Covid Study app, the "top five symptoms" include a runny nose, headache, sneezing, a sore throat, and a persistent cough.

Experts have said, "Fewer symptoms were reported over a shorter period of time by those who had already had a jab," meaning people who are vaccinated are "falling less seriously ill and getting better more quickly".

Classic COVID symptoms such as loss of smell, shortness of breath, and fever have become less frequent, whereas "persistent cough now ranks at number five if you’ve had two vaccine doses, so is no longer the top indicator of having Covid," the researchers added.

In order to safeguard yourself from these top 5 COVID symptoms, here are some do's and don'ts to pay attention to this Diwali!

Also read: IIT Delhi led researchers develop VLP-based vaccine candidate against COVID

The COVID-19 pandemic altered a significant part of our lives, which includes how we celebrate festivals. Pre-COVID, most of us, came together, participated in family functions and organized grand parties and gatherings. Post-COVID and even now, when things have taken a milder turn, we must not let our guards down.

COVID is still amongst us, infecting people and posing a great risk to those who fall under the high risk category. That said, while it's important to make the most of the festivals, you must make sure that you avoid hosting or taking part in large indoor gatherings. Avoid going to such parties if you have symptoms or maintain distance from those who showcase symptoms associated with cold, flu or COVID.

Wearing masks and maintaining social distance are still the two best ways to protect ourselves against COVID-19. Although the worst may seem like it's over, high quality face masks can still protect you against mild flu-like symptoms, which can be very burdensome.

As is known, the SARs-CoV-2 virus is a highly contagious, transmissible virus that can spread from person to person through small droplets from the nose or mouth. This can be facilitated while talking, sneezing, coughing or even laughing.

That said, if you notice a person with cold, flu-like symptoms, avoid close contact and maintain distance. Again, do not forget to wear a well-fitting mask.

Most of the germs and viruses travel through our mouth, eyes and nose, which is why we must avoid touching our faces with contaminated and unsanitized hands. It is important that we maintain our hand hygiene. Wash your hands with soap or disinfect it after touching surfaces that could be a possible breeding spot for the viruses.

It is extremely crucial that you isolate yourself in case of any flu-like symptoms. Irrespective of whether you have cold, flu or COVID, going out and mingling with people can put them at risk of infection. Furthermore, the most vulnerable people in the society may fall severely ill.

Besides getting your COVID vaccines or booster shots, make sure you also get your flu jabs. Both respiratory infections are highly contagious and can transmit from person to person. It is therefore best to get yourself vaccinated against the SARs-CoV-2 as well as the influenza virus.