What you should know about COVID-19
The second wave of COVID-19 took a massive toll on all of us. Not only did it highlight the poor state of our country's medical infrastructure, but it also called attention to the negligent behaviour of its people, which claimed the lives of many. Now that the number of COVID cases are slowly declining and matters are beginning to stabilize, it is important that we do not stray away from the learnings of the past and continue practicing COVID appropriate behaviour. That said, for people who have started to let their guards down, here's what you should know about COVID-19.
COVID-19 is still very infectious and transmissible
The sudden surge of COVID-19 cases sure took everyone by surprise. However, it only underlined the high rate of infectiousness and transmissibility of the disease, which is why it is crucial that we stand our ground and be cautious so we do not trigger yet another wave of the deadly infection.
The New Variants are making it even worse
The recent reports of new emerging variants signals the calm before the storm. While the number of coronavirus cases decline in the country , it should not be misinterpreted as a green signal to retracing our steps back to normalcy. With the World Health Organization (WHO) categorising the Delta Variant (B.1.617.2), which emerged in India in October last year, as a 'variant of concern' (VOC), many countries have braced themselves and have begun to prepare for future risks and complications.
Viruses are meant to mutate and change and there is no definite answer to how often SARs-COV-2 virus will mutate. But given that the new variants are more infectious and transmissible, people must stay put and follow all the precautionary measures.
Vaccination may avoid severe infection, but you can still get COVID-19
The most dangerous aspect of the virus is its unpredictability. While some are prone to mild, moderate or severe infections, others have no symptoms at all. Therefore, as of now, vaccinations are the only mode of protection against COVID-19. While some people continue to remain sceptical, it is the only way to gain some immunity against the virus.
If you are vaccinated, it is important to note that vaccines can provide you with a certain level of protection and avoid severe infections and hospitalization. However, it does not make you less prone to the virus and you can still contract the disease and pass it on to others, especially the ones who are most vulnerable.
Children are as susceptible to the virus as adults
The second wave of coronavirus not only impacted the adults, but it also took a massive toll on the children. While many have blamed the mutations, according to experts, the rate of COVID infection in kids is high because the prevalence is high.
Given the increased rate of COVID-19 infection amongst kids in the past and the unavailability of vaccines, parents have developed concerns over the safety of their children. Although the virus poses no greater risks to the children and has a similar impact like it has on the adults, parents must remain cautious.
Remember, the second wave of coronavirus was driven by lax in taking precautions too
Since the onset of the deadly virus, experts and authorities have emphasized on the importance of taking precautions and following a COVID appropriate behaviour. While many blame the new variants for the second wave and the lives it claimed, the negligence and the lack of following COVID rules also added to the devastation caused.
Therefore, before another wave hits us hard, let's be more mindful of our actions and protect ourselves and those who are the most vulnerable from the deadly virus.
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Double mask and wash your hands frequently
Even today, it is important that you wear your masks regularly. Double mask if you have to. Wash your hands frequently and continue practicing social distancing. Visit outdoors only when absolutely necessary. The decrease in the number of COVID cases does not imply that the virus is fully gone.