New Delhi: India, on Tuesday, reported its first case of Omicron subvariant BQ.1 in Pune, Maharashtra. The new variant is a descendant of BA.5. Citing a 17.7 per cent spike in coronavirus cases in Maharashtra this week, the state health department on Monday warned of the risk of a spike in covid-19 cases in the state during winter and festive season. The XBB variant of Omicron, found for the first time in the country and in the state, has a ‘growth advantage over BA.2.75 and immune evasive property’. The new BA.2.3.20 and BQ.1 variants have been detected in the state with a surge in cases reported in densely-populated parts of the state – Mumbai, Thane and Raigad.
“Some experts are predicting a rise (in cases) in the coming winter season, especially in festive environs,” PTI reported. It was also reported that the proportion of cases of Omicron subvariant BA.2.75 has decreased from 95 to 76 per cent. Amidst this, the state health department warned that people must not overlook flu-like symptoms and must get medical assistance on priority and also issued a word on the need to follow covid-appropriate behaviour on priority.
“They must observe Covid-19 appropriate behaviour at the earliest. Persons with comorbidities need to take extra precautions while visiting public places. Persons suffering from influenza-like illness should avoid public contact as much as possible,” the state department’s bulletin advised.
The state of Maharashtra reported cases of the new XBB variant which has a growth advantage over BA.2.75 and immune evasive properties as well. Apart from this, Omicron subvariants BA.7 and BA.5.1.7, known to be highly infectious and transmissible have been recently detected by the Gujarat Biotechnology Research Center.
Covid precautions to take this festive season
This festive season, citing the fear of spike in cases, the following covid precautions are advised for all:
- Do not ignore flu-like symptoms
- Get vaccinated as per the guidelines
- Take extra precautions in public spaces if you are struggling with comorbidities like diabetes or heart disease or obesity
- People with influenza-like conditions must get a flu shot
- Maintain social distancing
- Observe covid-appropriate behaviour in public spaces
- Avoid excess physical contact with people around
Disclaimer: Tips and suggestions mentioned in the article are for general information purposes only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a dietician before starting any fitness programme or making any changes to your diet.
