by Tonya Breaux-Shropshire, PhD, DNP, FNP, MPH | Blog |
Covid-19 new variant uncertainty, but so far mild symptoms without hospitalization have occurred so far. The new COVID-19 variant (B1.1.529) called Omicron was first discovered in South Africa on November 11, 2021, some experts suspect. However, some experts believe it was first spotted in Europe. South Africa has a low vaccination rate (less than 38%). Isreal, Germany, Belgian, Italy, and France have detected the Omicron variant.
How Bad Is It?
There are 32 spike proteins and 50 different mutations on the Omicron variant and this is more than the Alpha and Delta variants. The uncertainty of how harmful (more hospitalizations and more deadly) this variant is so far is the problem we are facing currently. It may take up to 11 days or more to determine what is going on with the Omicron.
Other uncertainties are the effectiveness of the antiviral and monoclonal antibodies, which some experts suspect might not be as effective. However, it is too early to know because the data is not available.
Boosters, Public Health Measures, & Vitamin D
Ask your doctor about increasing your vitamin D and about adding K2. Boosters are recommended for mRNA vaccinated after 6 months and for J & J vaccinated after 2 months.
Common Symptoms: Headache with extreme fatigue (sleepiness) and body aches in the vaccinated according to South African doctors. Young people (unvaccinated 20-30’s year olds have been affected more severely so far up to hospitalization).
Will It Escape the COVID-19 Vaccines?
Testing (test tube studies) will be done to determine how much the vaccines are still working. Also, there will be testing to determine if natural immunity will Delta, Alpha, and other variants will still be effective to prevent hospitalization and death.
So far, only mild cases have been reported in South Africa and elsewhere, which is good news. Hopefully, the Omicron variant will not pose a threat and we can continue to enjoy the success of the vaccine program. Nevertheless, caution is warranted until we know more.
Keep wearing your mask, washing your hands, and getting your booster. If not vaccinated, this might be a good time to consider the vaccine.
