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What is the Botswana Variant and Is It Highly Transmissible?

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It seems that every time we start harbouring the hope that the pandemic is finally over, a new variant of the coronavirus rears its ugly head. This time around, the bad news came from Botswana and South Africa and this new mutant has become a matter of concern quickly. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the variant named ‘Omicron’, has a large number of mutations, some of which are worrying. Essentially, if you thought that the worst is over, you need to think again. However, having a good health insurance policy can help you tide over these challenging and uncertain times. 

What is the new variant and why is it a concern?

First detected in Botswana in November 2021, the new variant has been named Omicron by the WHO. The B.1.1.529 variant has been identified in atleast 23 countries so far, including South Africa, US, UK, Italy, Netherlands, Belgium, Israel, Japan and India, according to the WHO.

The WHO classified this new variant as a `variant of concern’ because of its unusually high number of mutations, that is, 30. Due to this, scientists believe there may be an increased risk of reinfection as compared to other variants,and it may spread more easily and could be vaccine-resistant. However, research is still underway to know the exact nature of Omicron, that is, its severity, reinfection risk and transmissibility.

Where exactly has it been found?

The heavily mutated Omicronwas first reported in Southern Africa and has now spread to 23 countries including India. As of 2 December, around 375 cases were reported from these countries.

How does it compare to other variants?

Comparedto other variants, Omicron has several mutations, which is why the WHO has classified it as highly transmissible.But it is still not clear if the variant is more contagious than other variants or whether it is more severe than other strains. Scientists are still working on these aspects.

Is it resistant to vaccines?

As of now, there is no clear-cut evidence if Omicron is resistant to vaccines. Research is still going on to understand the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines against the new variant and till some finding is reached,the WHO hasadvised everyone to get vaccinated to stay protected against other variants, including the Delta strain. Vaccination will also help avoid severe complications and death from Covid-19. If your vaccine requires two doses, make sure you take both for maximum protection.

What new restrictions are being imposed?

Many countries have tightened travel and entry restrictions or extended the existing restrictions for international air travel. While some countries have banned flights from at-risk nations, some have made it mandatory to produce negative RTPCR report upon arrival. The test should have been taken 48 hours before departure. Countries like Canada and Singapore have made it mandatory for travellers from high-risk nations to get tested on arrival and isolate till results are out.

Is there anything you can do to protect yourself?

As with other variants, the guidelines to stay protected and stop the spread of Omicron remain the same.

• Wear a well-fitting mask that covers your mouth and nose. Before wearing the mask and while removing it, make sure your hands are clean

• Maintain a distance of at least 1m from others

• Keep your windows open for proper ventilation

• Stay away from poorly ventilated or crowded spaces

• Maintain hygiene always and keep your hands clean

• Use tissue while coughing/sneezing or do it into your elbow

• Take your vaccine on time

Conclusion

With so many coronavirus variants around us, we have no option but to get on with life by following all the safety protocols. If, unfortunately, you get infected with the virus and need hospitalisation, your health insurance will take care of all Covid-19 related expenses. So, buy the best health insurance policy in India according to your requirements and stay protected!

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purpose only. For more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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