UK reports the highest number of daily COVID cases
The emergence of the Omicron variant has led to a spike in the cases of COVID-19 across the world. The United Kingdom recorded its highest daily coronavirus cases since the beginning of the pandemic on Wednesday, which is expected to rise over the next few days. The country reported about 78,610 positive cases of COVID-19 infections, 10,000 more than the previous high reported in January. As per the UK Health Ministry, of all 4671 new cases of Omicron reported, it took the total confirmed cases of the new variant to 10,017. In India, 4 new cases of the variant were reported on Thursday, raising the total tally to 77. The Omicron variant originated in South Africa is more transmissible than other variants and its presence has been detected in more than 57 countries till now, which is alarming. It also raises an important question, whether we should go back to following the old COVID-19 norms to contain the virus?
Read also: Coronavirus: One tell-tale sign of Omicron variant less common with the Delta variant
Also See: Coronavirus symptoms: Signs you most likely have Omicron and not regular cold
Why are imposing measures crucial?
Due to a considerable decline in the positive cases across the globe in the past few months, countries relaxed COVID norms. The lockdowns were lifted, many schools and offices reopened and international flights resumed. But looking at the current situation, it looks like it's time to impose restrictions once again to prevent the third wave of coronavirus. The new variant is more transmissible than the previous ones which means it can infect more people in less time.
What studies reveal about the Omicron variant?
Studies suggest that the Omicron variant is 4.2 times more transmissible in its early stage than the delta virus that wreaked havoc earlier this year. Another preliminary study suggests that the omicron variant multiplies about 70 times faster inside respiratory tract tissue than the delta variant. Besides, the variant reaches higher levels in the tissue, compared to the delta in just 48 hours after infection. Although omicron is said to cause milder symptoms than Delta, it may infect more people in a lesser amount of time. If restrictions are not imposed, Omicron can lead to third-wave across the globe.
Read more: Coronavirus symptoms: Signs you most likely have Omicron and not regular cold
The variant can surpass the immunity
Not only is Omicron more contagious than Delta, but it can also surpass immunity developed after vaccination and natural infection, according to reports. Vaccinations can indeed lower the risk of severe infection and hospitalization, but they cannot provide complete protection against the virus. The risk of reinfection after vaccination is even higher in case of immunocompromised people. The vaccine manufacturers are still awaiting more data on the new variant to test their respective vaccines. Only after that, they would be able to say if their dose provides complete protection or not. Most likely they will have to make tweaks to contain the virus.
The possible solution
Looking at the circumstances, the only possible solution to contain the virus is to impose restrictions, else in the coming days, the situation may get worse. Also, due to winters, there is a double threat in the form of flu and COVID. If the cases keep rising, it would become difficult to manage the situation later. Until the government does not impose formal restrictions, all we can do is follow COVID-norms religiously. Wash our hands, cover our mouth when coughing, avoid crowded places, wear a mask when going out, stay indoors as much as possible and get vaccinated.