New Covid variant sparks concerns

The coronavirus (COVID-19), known for its severe impact on human lives, has re-emerged in a new variant, raising concerns about its potential threat to the unvaccinated population.

Health experts have identified a risk ranging from 20% to 25% even for those who have been vaccinated. In response to the evolving situation, the District Health Authority (DHA) has initiated an awareness campaign against COVID-19, appointing four focal persons, and is seeking guidelines from the Punjab government and the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC).

Following the significant financial and human losses incurred during the three consecutive waves of coronavirus, individuals wary of this deadly epidemic are once again experiencing symptoms such as cold and shortness of breath. Doctors in public and private hospitals are advising patients with coronavirus-like symptoms to wear masks, avoid crowds, maintain a three-foot distance from others, take steam, gurgle, and breathe in open air.

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Health experts note that a majority of the patients currently seeking medical attention exhibit symptoms consistent with coronavirus. However, due to a lack of widespread testing for the virus and no official decision regarding mandatory testing, the definitive identification of individuals with the virus remains challenging. Common symptoms observed include fever and sore throat.

It is worth recalling that, from the first to the third wave of the coronavirus pandemic, a total of 44,188 people in the Rawalpindi district tested positive for COVID-19 and were admitted to government and private hospitals.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 28^th, 2023.