The Omicron (Nu) variant, described by the World Health Organization (WHO) as 'worrying', continues to be seen in many countries so far. As the coronavirus pandemic approaches its second year, the new variant announced by the World Health Organization is causing concern all over the world. Professor from Memorial Kayseri Hospital, Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology. Dr. Ayşegül Ulu Kılıç shared the following about the Omicron variant, which was determined to have more than 30 mutations.
have many mutations
The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified B.1.1.529 as an alarming variant called 'Omicron'. WHO announced that variant B.1.1.529 was first reported on 24 November 2021 from South Africa. A sharp increase in infections has been observed in recent weeks, coinciding with the detection of the B.1.1.529 variant. The first known confirmed B.1.1.529 infection was detected in a sample collected on November 9, 2021.
This variant has an alarmingly large number of mutations. Preliminary evidence indicates an increased risk of re-infection with this variant compared to other variants of concern. It was determined that this variant increased the number of cases in almost all cities in South Africa. The currently used SARS-CoV-2 PCR test method can also detect this variant.
Mask, distance, hygiene are important
It is desirable to continue surveillance and sequencing studies to better understand the SARS-CoV-2 variants circulating in the community. These measures also need to continue to reduce the risks of COVID-19, including proven public health and social measures such as wearing masks, observing hand hygiene and physical distancing, ventilating indoor spaces, avoiding crowded places, and getting vaccinated.
Infectious power increased even more
Proteins play a key role for the new type of coronavirus to enter our cells. As the number of mutations of the virus increases in protein projections, the risk of losing the effectiveness of vaccines increases day by day. Due to the mutated virus, its contagious power increases and a severe disease picture emerges. In the Delta variant, there were 2 mutations in the hedgehog part that contacts the cells, while the number of mutations in Omicron was 10. As for the symptoms of the disease, some changes were observed with the emergence of the Omicron variant. It was determined that the sense of taste and smell did not disappear in the patients in whom the variant was first seen. Some patients reported symptoms such as muscle pain, fatigue, high fever, and mild cough. Experts who made a statement about the new variant stated that it is very different from other variants. However, it is not yet known how the variant will affect those who have not been vaccinated, elderly individuals and those with chronic diseases. In the next period, the quarantine process becomes even more important in the disease caused by this new variant.
Omicron (nu variant) case has not been seen so far in Turkey
Today, there is an air of concern all over the world regarding the Omicron variant. While cases detected or suspected in South Africa and some European countries have been encountered so far; Numerous countries, including Turkey, the UK, Australia, Canada and the USA, have banned or restricted travel from South Africa and neighboring areas.
Quarantine recommendations for patients
Proper and balanced nutrition is important in viral diseases as well as in all diseases. Consuming foods rich in vitamins and minerals will contribute to the strengthening of the immune system. Vitamin C, zinc and vitamin D should be taken in appropriate amounts with the advice of specialist doctors.
Drink plenty of water during the day that the body needs. The importance of water, which is the source of life, has been proven in the coronavirus process, as in all diseases.
Patients must rest. Adequate, regular and quality sleep is very important in the disease process.
A positive perspective in the disease process will make a significant contribution to recovery. The patient should stay away from anxiety and stress and take precautions for this.
If medication has been given to the patient by specialist physicians, the drugs should be taken without interruption. Patients should notify their doctors of any changes in their condition without delay.
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