Four cases of highly infectious Omicron subvariant BF.7 have been detected in India so far. Two cases have been reported from Gujarat and two from Odisha.
The new and highly transmissible BF.7 strain of the Omicron variant has driven the current unprecedented surge in Covid cases in China too.
This sub-variant has also already been detected in several other countries including Germany, Belgium, France, Denmark, The US and the UK.
While health authorities and experts say there is no need to panic as yet, they have also emphasised the need of following social distancing measures, getting tested, getting booster vaccinations wherever needed to contain the spread of the virus.
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But, here’s what we know so far.
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About Omicron sub-variant BF.7
The BF.7 is a sub-lineage of the Omicron variant BA.5. According to PTI, it is a highly transmissible variant with a shorter incubation period. It also has a higher capacity to cause re-infection and can even infect vaccinated individuals.
According to a study published in the journal ‘Cell Host and Microbe,’ the BF.7variant has 4.4-fold higher neutralization resistance than the original Wuhan virus. This means the antibodies from the vaccination are not effective enough against the virus.
AFP
What are its symptoms?
The symptoms of Omicron’s subvariant BF.7 are quite similar to those of other subvariants. A runny nose, sore throat, fever, cough, vomiting, exhaustion, and diarrhoea are a few typical symptoms.
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Other symptoms include confusion, hallucinations, rashes or blistering, uncontrolled diabetes, kidney issues and extreme weakness. However, those with weakened immune systems and pre-existing medical issues are more prone to develop serious diseases from the variation.
If someone is experiencing such symptoms, expert advise getting tested immediately.
This variant may not lead to any severe complication but can spread faster. Therefore, early detection and isolation are extremely crucial.
BCCL
Who is at risk?
The risk of contracting this virus is higher in those who are not vaccinated or have weak immune systems, including the elderly, children, pregnant women, and people with several co-morbidities like cancer, uncontrolled diabetes, and heart, or kidney problems.
What are the precautions one can take?
As Christmas and New Year celebrations are around the corner, it is more crucial than ever to follow Covid-appropriate behaviour. Wearing a mask, social distancing and hand sanitization remain the basic steps that can help prevent a possible spread.
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Currently, China, Japan, South Korea, France and the United States have been reporting an alarming surge in Covid-19 cases.
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