India has reported four cases of Omicron subvariant BF.7, triggering a Covid surge in China. BF.7 is a subline of the previous Omicron variant BA.5.
China is hit by a new wave of Covid-19. Her current increase in Covid-19 infections in China is believed to be caused by Omicron subspecies BF.7. So far, his four cases of BF.7 subspecies have been detected in India. Two cases have been reported in Gujarat and two in Orissa. This subvariant has already been found in several other countries such as Germany, Belgium, France, Denmark, USA and UK.
Omicron sub-variant BF.7: What we know so far
BF.7 is a subline of Omicron variant BA.5. According to PTI, it is a variant that has a short incubation period and is highly contagious. It also has a high ability to cause reinfection and can infect vaccinated people.
According to a study published in the journal Cell Host and Microbe, the BF.7 variant is 4.4 times more resistant to neutralization than the original Wuhan virus. This means that antibodies from vaccines are not sufficiently effective against the virus.
Symptoms of Omicron BF.7 variant
The new variant presents with symptoms similar to upper respiratory tract infections, including fever, sore throat, runny nose and cough.
Some patients may also experience stomach-related problems such as diarrhea and vomiting.
If someone has such symptoms, experts recommend getting tested right away.
This variant does not cause serious complications, but may spread more rapidly. Early detection and isolation are therefore very important.
Precautions
With the Christmas and New Year celebrations fast approaching, it’s more important than ever to adhere to Covid-friendly behavior. Wearing masks, social distancing and hand sanitizing are basic steps to help prevent potential spread.
Colds, coughs and other seasonal illnesses are also common in India at this time of year. . However, these symptoms should not be ignored. If you or someone close to you experiences any of the above symptoms, get tested for Covid immediately and practice self-isolation.
Low immunity could be the culprit
It is believed that a low level of immunity due to previous infections can be one of the major reasons behind the surge in China.
What is the situation in India?
Four cases of the BF.7 variant have been reported in India, till now. Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya urged people to follow Covid-appropriate behaviour. “COVID is not over yet. I have directed all concerned to be alert and strengthen surveillance. We are prepared to manage any situation,” he wrote in a tweet.
Additional Chief Secretary of Health, Manoj Agarwal told news agency ANI that the central government briefed all states to ensure proper screening of international passengers, as well as genome sequencing, on Tuesday.
Currently, China, Japan, South Korea, France and the United States have been reporting an alarming surge in Covid-19 cases.
Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. TechieBundle does not claim responsibility for this information.
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