On November 26, a new variant of Covid-19 was recognized as a “variant of concern,” it’s called Omicron. It originated in Botswana and South Africa in November and is now spreading worldwide, faster than any other Covid-19 variant previously identified, causing concern and panic to rise around the world.

 

Something about this new variant that’s causing stress for most people is how it has also come with symptoms that vary for each person. These symptoms are similar to those we normally see in Covid-19. Among these, there’s sore throat, congestion, dry cough, and muscular pain throughout the body. The symptoms can be mild or severe depending on the health, age, and other factors of the patient. 

 

On a brighter note, Omicron seems to be less severe and less likely for hospitalization than previous variants. Even though the chances are low, it is still possible to be hospitalized depending on the person infected, which is why we still need to be cautious and take the steps necessary to protect ourselves and others. If we aren’t careful about this variant, the cases will rapidly grow, meaning the death and hospitalized people rates will go up as well. 

 

An important step to take to fight the virus and protect ourselves is vaccination. Vaccinating is confirmed to be one of the most effective ways to shield yourself from being infected by any variant of Covid-19 that we know of. In the vaccination process, it’s also important to get the boosters as well as the primary series, since it increase

s the effectiveness of the vaccine. Those who are up to date with their vaccination process are more protected against Covid-19 than those who still haven’t gotten all the shots necessary.

 

This new Covid-19 variant should be treated with as much caution as the previous ones. Even though Omicron is milder than other variants, we should always be careful and mindful of the effects the virus has on people around the world. It’s important to take care of yourself and get the treatment necessary to fight this virus, especially when we don’t know what other variants could come next.