Fact or Fiction: New COVID Variant Won't Reduce Reinfection Anymore

The most recent Omicron subvariant BA.5 is a unique creature. Which aspect best describes it? It may overcome prior immunity from COVID infection and immunization, making it the most readily transmissible COVID variety to date.

Over 75% of the nation's new COVID cases, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), were caused by BA.5. The numbers are still increasing.

First Detection of New COVID 19 Variant

South Africa saw the first detection of BA.5, along with its close relative BA.4. The variations also immediately became popular in the US. BA.5 has already surpassed BA.4 and currently makes up two-thirds of COVID 19 cases in the United States.

Due to alterations that make it more transmissible than the previously dominant form, BA.5 has successfully taken over as with every other iteration of COVID 19 that causes case surges. Because of the variant's rapid spread in the U.S., it has been compared to measles- the most infectious viral human illness.

New COVID 19 Variant Symptoms

The COVID 19 symptoms caused by each variation, including omicron BA.5, are the same:

• Clogged nose
• Cough
• Unwell throat
• Fever
• Headaches
• Muscular ache
• Fatigue

A breakthrough infection can still occur in patients who have only partial protection from a prior illness or immunization. People who have received a vaccination or COVID in the past are more likely to have breakthrough infections. Contrary to early in the pandemic, when no one had immunity, the majority of breakthrough infections are not, on the other hand, producing serious sickness.

COVID 19 Reinfection Rate

Given that many persons test at home or not at all, it is difficult to determine the precise number of COVID reinfection rate cases. Additionally, because the CDC doesn't keep track of reinfections, it is hard to estimate the number of persons who have become ill more than once.

Some individuals with symptoms opt not to be tested for a variety of reasons. The statistics in no way represent what is happening. The specific window of time during which someone might get the disease is unknown as well.

Within a few months, COVID 19 infections might happen twice. Some individuals who bounced back from the previous Omicron variants in the late winter and early spring are most likely prone to contracting BA.

However, after fighting off one variation, the body won't be as easily overcome by another. It's also doubtful that someone will contract Omicron every two to three weeks given the likelihood that BA.5 will cling onto its position for a little while longer.

Omicron is Less Serious

According to a recent study, the risk for problems rises with each subsequent COVID infection, even silent infections. These consist of:

• Heart attack and stroke
• Diabetes
• Digestive system issues
• Dementia and long-term cognitive impairment

The likelihood of protracted COVID or persistent COVID symptoms, which can linger for weeks or months following infection, is also increased with each reinfection.

Guard Yourself Against Omicron

The following is advised by health professionals as a defense against omicron BA.5:

• Make sure you have had the necessary COVID 19 vaccinations and boosters. The bivalent booster is an "updated booster" that contains two COVID 19 viral mRNA components, one of which targets omicron BA.4 and BA.5. Numerous studies have shown that obtaining all of your COVID 19 booster shots and getting vaccinated will help prevent you from a serious illness. Find out more about the bivalent booster for COVID 19 and how to schedule a bivalent booster at UC Davis Health.
• When you are indoors and unable to socially remove yourself from people outside of your home, use a well-fitted face covering, such as an N95 or KN95. It's crucial for those who are at a higher risk of contracting serious illnesses.

Call BASS Medical

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization argue that further study is necessary since there are so many unanswered questions. You'll need answers right away if, however, you're worried that you or a loved one could have Covid. A resource is BASS Medical Group. Doctors who are authorities in their disciplines make up their elite squad. Call right away to schedule an appointment.