Despite the various variants of the coronavirus (like the Delta variant), the world as a whole is slowly but surely moving away from the pandemic. Around the globe vaccination rates are increasing, while Covid-19 related infection, hospitalization and death rates are decreasing.
Along with Covid-19 protocols like hand hygiene, respiratory etiquettes, physical distancing, vaccination is quickly becoming the most powerful tool against Covid-19. There have been many studies over the past year noting the difference between people vaccinated for Covid-19 vs those who are unvaccinated. Vaccination has been shown to drastically lower your risk of getting severe symptoms upon infection, even if breakthrough infections are possible.
Vaccines are not 100% successful, even when fully vaccinated (for Covid-19 or anything else) there is still a small chance you can still get infected. When someone catches the disease that they are fully vaccinated for, it is commonly known as a breakthrough infection. You may be thinking, well then, what’s the point of getting vaccinated if breakthrough infections are possible?
The fact is that currently, hospitalizations and deaths related to COVID-19 are made up overwhelmingly of unvaccinated people. According to the CDC in the USA, deaths and hospitalizations of fully vaccinated people make up just 0.01% of total vaccinated cases. To put that into perspective, if 1 million people got vaccinated, only 100 of those would experience hospitalization or death. The rate of the same in unvaccinated people is much higher.
You have a lower risk of catching COVID-19 if you’re vaccinated and even if you happen to suffer from a breakthrough infection, you’re still at a much lower risk of hospitalisation and death. To be clear, these facts also take into account early data that includes Delta variant cases.
By now it has become common knowledge that all viruses and bacteria mutate and evolve with time in response to vaccines and medicines. Sometimes (not always) these mutations can lead to variants that are more harmful or spread more easily. That happens to be the situation for the Delta variant of the COVID-19 coronavirus.
Many countries started easing on pandemic protocols only to get slammed by new Delta variant cases. We know that vaccines have lower effectiveness with breakthrough Delta variant cases. But still, most vaccines provide substantial protection against the Delta variant than not being vaccinated at all.
Some previously discovered data on Delta variant cases:
The only protection we have against the deadly Delta variant is vaccination. The effectiveness of vaccination may drop to 39% – 95% as compared to its effectiveness against the Alpha variant. But that is still a massive leg-up from being unvaccinated.
People who are vaccinated are not only less likely to get infected (by any variant) but are also less likely to experience severe symptoms. It has been reported that fully vaccinated people experience much milder symptoms (runny nose, congestion, etc) compared to unvaccinated people. Obviously, people with weaker immune systems are at a higher risk of severe disease from COVID-19, regardless of vaccination status. But unvaccinated people will have an increased risk of suffering severe symptoms caused by the Delta variant, including fever, difficulty breathing and headaches.
More severe symptoms of COVID-19 will often lead to an increased risk of hospitalization. Unvaccinated people are more likely to need hospital treatment when infected with the coronavirus and its variants. Several factors play into hospitalization rates, such as age, weaker immune systems, other comorbid conditions and which variant infects you. But vaccination seems to benefit people against the Delta variant at some level, regardless of other factors.
Here’s a quick summary to get a gist of vaccination effectiveness against the Delta variant:
Also Read: Omicron Variant vs Vaccine Efficacy
Many people are afraid of the current situation. People fear not only the virus and losing loved ones but also fear vaccine reactions. But getting COVID-19 can lead to major complications while vaccine reactions are mild and last only a couple of days. The enormous body of evidence is painting a clear picture – vaccination is better overall, regardless of variant. It is best to avoid sensationalized, clickbait news sites that try to instil fear about ‘increasing breakthrough infections!’. Breakthrough infections are expected and it is nothing to get agitated about. Besides this, their occurrence is very low. Fully vaccinated people can increase their protection against the Delta variant (and other variants) by continuing to wear a mask, maintain social distance and wash hands regularly. If you are unvaccinated, you need to do the same but also get your vaccination done at the earliest.
Also Read: Omicron Variant: Latest News & Updates
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
As COVID vaccination gains momentum all over India and there is a drop in COVID cases, we are all feeling relieved. But is it possible that we are faced with another health challenge? Is a new wave of COVID rearing its head? A survey has shown 28 percent of households in Delhi, have one or more members with symptoms that are very similar to COVID. The same has been reported in UP and Haryana. So what does this mean? Read on to find out-
People in parts of India are complaining of symptoms of fever, sore throat, runny nose, cough, headache or body ache, all of which are taking a longer recovery period than usual. Now that we have been living in a pandemic for more than a year and a half, it is not surprising that people are confusing these symptoms with COVID-19 symptoms. In some cases, patients have fevers as high as 103 degrees Fahrenheit and above. Another concerning symptom is associated cough and cold.
Despite the uncanny similarities, after careful examination and monitoring, doctors have said that out of all these cases that have been reported, some were of dengue, some malaria and chikungunya while others were diagnosed to be COVID and seasonal flu. According to flu news in India, even hospitals have been receiving at least 50-60 cases of viral infection on a daily basis.
What could’ve led to this surge in flu cases? Actually, flu (both influenza and swine flu) is common around this time of the year. The changing weather, extreme heat and excessive rainfall in different parts of the country are ideal conditions for the spread of the flu viruses.
Read More: All About New Omicron Covid Variant
It is important to remember that we are far from winning the battle against COVID and the moment you experience the above-mentioned symptoms, you should consult a doctor. Getting tested for COVID will not only ensure your safety but it will also help your family members continue to remain safe and cautious.
A report says, since mid-August, several residents of Delhi who have been experiencing COVID-like symptoms, got RT-PCR tests done. The reports came negative and doctors have only found it to be some kind of viral infection or vector-borne seasonal flu.
However, your symptoms could indeed be triggered by COVID-19. So you cannot get complacent.
If you cannot get a lab test, there are several home test kits available in the market. Buy one to determine if you have COVID or not. These are quick, user-friendly and reliable. It’s not just enough to rule out COVID, you should consult a doctor and get a proper diagnosis and follow the treatment for your fever.
There is a constant fear among people of a possible third wave of COVID -19. In a critical situation like this, one must take precautions at all times. The good news is that the precautions you take against COVID will also keep you safe from the flu.
Here are a few things to remember:
1. Avoid close contact with people
You must always remember that it is never a good idea to be in close contact with people who are sick. As you maintain distance from others owing to COVID guidelines, continue to follow the same in order to protect yourself and your family from the flu. The same applies if you are feeling sick. Stay at home so that you do not spread the illness.
2. Cover nose and mouth
You must always cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. Like COVID, flu viruses are also spread mainly by droplets from the infected person and doing this will prevent others from falling sick. Wearing a mask as part of COVID rules will also protect you from flu in India.
3. Wash hands frequently
It is a known fact that maintaining good hygiene can keep illness at bay. Carry a hand sanitiser with you while stepping out and wash hands when you come home from outdoors. This helps fight germs and viruses because many of them enter our bodies through our hands.
4. Maintain healthy habits
Manage stress, sleep enough, stay hydrated, disinfect surfaces and eat healthy to stay fit and bolster your immunity. When you have strong immunity, your chances of an illness automatically reduces.
5. Protect yourselves from a mosquito bite.
Also Read: Omicron Variant: Latest News & Updates
COVID-19 and flu in India have similar symptoms, which is why it is important for us all to continue observing COVID protocol so that we contract neither COVID nor the flu. Getting the correct diagnosis for your symptoms is important because the treatment for different diseases vary. It is also crucial that people get vaccinated as soon as possible. You may consider getting flu shots for added protection during this flu season.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
As we anticipate the arrival of a deadly third wave of COVID-19, more and more people are being vaccinated in order to prevent the increasing rate of mortality due to the virus. While vaccination may not seem to be the means to prevent COVID-19 re-infection, it is definitely proven to bring down the severity of the infection, the rate of transmission and the need for hospitalisation.
Several studies regarding the vaccine, in all parts of the world, are still on. But one must remember that any of these vaccines available to you are efficient and must not be avoided.
As the name suggests, it means contracting a second time COVID-19 after being infected previously and after recovering from the virus. While quite a few cases of COVID-19 re-infection have been reported, reinfection remains rare.
It is a fact that our immune system can remember certain infections very well but tend to forget others, especially the ones that appear in a changed form may be due to mutation and the emergence of newer variants. In such cases, the antibodies that our immunity produced may not be as responsive as to the originally encountered strain. It is also possible to get an infection with the same strain again, however, there are high chances that your body’s immunity will control the spread of infection and prevent you from getting a severe illness. The severity of illness and complications also depend on other pre-existing medical conditions of a person. It is important to understand that anyone can get reinfection with COVID so, stay safe by following COVID appropriate behaviour and get a full course of vaccination.
Various factors can make a person vulnerable and may increase the risk of COVID-19 re-infection.
Once a person is fully vaccinated, the defence mechanism of the body allows them to recognise the virus and fight it. One must remember that none of these vaccines claims to have 100% efficacy. The only assurance these vaccines provide is that if you get re-infected with COVID-19 once you are fully vaccinated; your infection will be far less severe and symptoms will be mild. The virus has already taken innumerable lives and getting vaccinated is your best bet. But it does not guarantee 100% protection from re-infection.
The Delta variant is a concern for all and studies show that most of the vaccines are effective against it. As the virus has mutated several times, it has become more and more difficult to keep track of it. It has only become stronger, faster and created havoc around the globe.
Another important thing to note here is that it takes about two weeks for your body, after vaccination, to build immunity against the virus. It is possible to contract the virus immediately after getting vaccinated. This is why even if you are fully vaccinated, you must continue to follow the guidelines and COVID-19 appropriate behaviour sincerely.
COVID-19 vaccination not only ensures your safety but also protects people around you as the transmission rate decreases. A higher vaccination rate will make outbreaks less likely and will help to achieve herd immunity. In the long run, It may effectively reduce certain restrictions as well as the socio-economic aftermath of the pandemic.
As we continue to learn more about COVID-19 re-infection, it is critical that we do not question the importance of vaccination. Yes, fully vaccinated people can get re-infected. But they are also capable of fighting it back better than non-vaccinated people. This is a battle we are fighting together and even if there is one unprotected individual, none of us is completely safe. Wear a mask, maintain distance, wash hands frequently and get vaccinated.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
We have reached the crest of the second wave of COVID-19. This wave laid bare vulnerabilities of the healthcare services and has taken a tremendous toll on lives, livelihood and psychological health.
Even though it has been months since the vaccination drive started in India, a very small percentage of the population has actually been able to get the COVID-19 jab. On top of that there are many questions to which we don’t know the answer, for example, how long will the vaccines be effective?
Fortunately, we now have an answer to one particular question. Many people have wondered if vaccination in pregnancy is safe. The answer is yes. The National Technical Advisory Group on Immunization (NTAGI) and the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare have given the go-ahead to vaccines for pregnant women.
Pregnancy does not increase the possibility of contracting COVID-19. However, studies have found that a COVID-19 infection in a pregnant woman has a higher risk of taking a turn for the worse than in a woman who is not pregnant.
The expecting mother’s health will likely deteriorate speedily and eventually, even the foetus’ health would be affected. That means, both the mother and the developing baby are at risk.
The risk of severe COVID-19 infection increases with the presence of comorbidities and if the woman is over 35 years of age.
Vaccination for pregnant women will drastically reduce the chances of them contracting a severe COVID-19. Just like in any other individual, the COVID-19 vaccine will awaken an immune response in the pregnant woman and her antibodies will be able to detect and kill COVID-19 if she is ever exposed to the virus.
The time of vaccination during pregnancy is flexible. At any point in her pregnancy, she can opt for the COVID-19 vaccine. The benefits of vaccines for pregnant women will be the same whenever she decides to get vaccinated.
Women who have recovered from COVID can also register for the COVID-19 vaccine. They would have to wait for 3 months after recovering from a COVID infection before they can get the vaccine.
The threats are not more substantial for pregnant women. The goal of the new vaccination drive for pregnant women is to let women decide what is the best course of action for them. If you have any concerns regarding vaccination, it is better to consult your doctor, clear your doubts and then get the jab.
Studies have already found that the benefits outweigh the risks. It is in the interests of the woman and her developing baby if she opts for vaccination during pregnancy.
The side-effects of vaccination will be the same for pregnant women as for anyone else:
Your doctor will be able to guide you about the management of any discomfort or side effects arising after vaccination. Do not self medicate.
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has instructed state governments to make vaccination available to all pregnant women who want to get vaccinated.
Now any mother-to-be can register on the CoWIN app and book a vaccination slot or she may walk into her nearest COVID Vaccination Centre to get the jab.
With the announcement of making vaccination during pregnancy available, 62% of the nation’s population is eligible to get the COVID-19 shot. This brings us one step closer to attaining herd immunity and winning the war against COVID-19. Continue following COVID-19 protocol even if you have been vaccinated or have recovered from COVID.
Also Read: Foods That Fight Nausea During Pregnancy: Guide For Expecting Mothers
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
Even though COVID-19 has been rampaging for more than a year, a lot is yet unknown about this virus. Every day scientists are making new discoveries and adding to our knowledge and understanding of the virus. This, we hope, will better equip us in finding ways to make the world population safe from COVID-19.
To further our knowledge about COVID-19 and understanding of re-infection, a study was planned in the UK by some of the most premium academic institutions of the country.
This study was recently conducted by the University of Oxford in conjunction with the Universities of Sheffield, Newcastle and Birmingham with help from the UK Coronavirus Immunology Consortium and has arrived at a startling finding.
People who have recovered from COVID-19 may still contract the disease from the Alpha and Beta COVID variants. The alpha and beta COVID-19 variants are the ones that wreaked destruction throughout the globe last year. The alpha variant was mostly responsible for the devastation in the US. The beta variant was discovered in South Africa and triggered a spike in that region of the African continent. They are all considered as ‘variants of concern‘. WHO has given these variants such a label because these have a high transmissibility rate and can lead to severe infections with far-reaching consequences on health.
Here are a few glimpses from the study and what it says about COVID re-infection:
For the study, researchers collected samples from 78 healthcare workers. These medical professionals are at the frontline of the war against COVID-19. The goal was to observe how their immunity responds to COVID-19 and what are the chances of being infected again even after recovering from COVID-19.
The people from whom samples were taken had experienced both symptomatic (66 of the volunteers) and asymptomatic COVID infection (12 of the volunteers). All of them had contracted COVID-19 very recently. The sample pool also included 8 people who had survived very severe COVID-19 infections.
The samples were drawn every month from the first to the sixth month from the time of the infection. Several types of antibody tests such as Spike-specific and Nucleocapsid-specific antibodies were run on the samples to analyse the body’s memory of the disease and understand different aspects of the person’s immune response.
For more accurate analysis, machine learning technology nicknamed SIMON was deployed. The involvement of SIMON was a game-changer. Why? Because now, with the help of SIMON, the researchers could get their hands on complex datasets to understand patterns in the sample analyses. This had never happened before.
This means that the researchers could tell with greater accuracy what the early response to the disease is like. With that data, they could also predict how long-term immunity will shape up. This, in turn, helped them realize what the chances of re-infection are.
Through the avant-garde technology used, researchers came across an immune signature that develops in the first month post-infection. This signature can determine how strong COVID-19 immunity will be in the sixth month post the infection.
The samples of many of the participants showed very weak immune signatures in the first month (26% for symptomatic disease and 92% for asymptomatic disease). That translated to the failure to produce antibodies that can destroy the alpha and beta COVID variants.
The samples of some of the survivors showed no immune memory at all 6 months after the infection. The findings point to an uncomfortable truth that the immune systems of COVID-19 survivors may not be able to shield them from re-infections.
This study has proved that surviving a COVID-19 infection need not necessarily grant a person complete immunity from the virus, especially because new variants too are on the rise. Just because you have contracted COVID-19 once does not mean that you are safe from it. Scientists had already assumed that the antibodies do not last long. This research has proved from another angle that re-infection is very much possible and the only way to save yourself is to get both doses of the COVID vaccine.
This means we should not relax the COVID-19 protocol even after recovering from COVID-19. A very real threat of COVID re-infection exists, especially from the alpha and beta COVID variants and also the newer variants.
It is very important to understand that you need a COVID vaccine (if not vaccinated already) after 3 months of recovery from a COVID infection as you cannot just rely on the immunity acquired from a Covid infection.
Continue following COVID-19 precautions such as hand sanitization and wearing of masks when you are outside. Clean your clothes, accessories, shoes and bags once you come home. Maintain physical distancing wherever possible. And book a slot for the COVID-19 vaccine, even if you had contracted COVID-19 earlier.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
India is slowly but surely weathering the deadly second wave of COVID. The past months have been marked with pain, loss, anxiety and heartbreak. It was also a time of hope as India accelerated the COVID vaccination drive and millions are on their way to developing immunity against COVID-19.
According to scientists, the COVID variant responsible for the second wave is Delta. WHO had earlier classified Delta ‘a variant of concern’.
Now it has come to light that there is another new COVID variant that is doing the rounds. This one is called Lambda. How dangerous is Lambda and what does it mean for India?
The nature of viruses is that they mutate with time and new variants are formed. The rule applies to the SARS-CoV2 virus as well. In fact, we have already heard and read about many of the earlier variants of this virus. The first wave was triggered by COVID variants such as Alpha, Beta or Gamma. Along with Delta, all these are in the ‘variants of concern’ bracket.
At times, mutation may bring little or no change in the properties of a virus. However, sometimes it plays an influence on the virus properties like how well vaccines work against the virus, the severity of the infection, transmission rate, post-recovery complications, etc.
Lambda, the COVID new strain, was originally detected in Peru and by now it has already spread to 29 countries. This is what drew WHO’s attention to this new COVID variant. Not much is yet known about Lamda, but it is believed that this COVID variant has the potential to spread fast.
WHO has labelled Lambda as a ‘variant of interest’.
Although Lambda variant is not a newly discovered, it is found to be a dominant strain in Peru where it originated. The variant has been identified to cause significant community transmission or multiple COVID-19 clusters.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj, M.B.B.S., M.D
To make it convenient to monitor, manage and gather the data on the spread of different variants of SARS-CoV-2, WHO has designed a classification system for these variants. This helps in assessing the risks posed by a particular variant and signalling the degree of preparedness required to countries across the globe. Read further to know the differences between variants of concern and variants of interest –
| VARIANTS OF CONCERN (VOC) | VARIANTS OF INTEREST (VOI) |
| It has been demonstrated to be associated with one or more of the following changes at a degree of global public health significance: Ӣ Increase in transmissibility or detrimental change in COVID-19 epidemiology; or Ӣ Increase in virulence or change in clinical disease presentation; or Ӣ Decrease ineffectiveness of public health and social measures or available diagnostics, vaccines, therapeutics. | A SARS-CoV-2 virus can be a Variant of Interest (VOI) if: Ӣ It has been identified to cause community transmission/multiple COVID-19 cases/clusters, or has been detected in multiple countries; OR Ӣ is otherwise assessed to be a VOI by WHO in consultation with the WHO SARS-CoV-2 Virus Evolution Working Group. |
| Variants in this category are – Alpha, Beta, Gamma and Delta. | Variants in this category are – Epsilon, Zeta, Eta, Theta, Iota, Kappa and Lambda. |
The mutation of the Lambda variant resembles those found in several other highly contagious or worrisome variants which means more dangerous than the original strain
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
The war against COVID does not end with vaccination. There is a lot that scientists do not know about Lambda or any of the future variants that may arise. So India will have to keep its guard up. It is too early to say if Lambda will trigger the third wave.
We the citizens need to be cautious too. Vaccination does not mean we can relax COVID norms like masking, physical distancing and hand hygiene. As of now, it is difficult to predict what the new variants like Lambda can bring to us. All that we can do is to follow all safety norms and practice COVID appropriate behaviour.
We are all together in this. Let’s hope to win this battle against COVID soon.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
Since the beginning of 2020, many of us have been scouring through the internet for tips on how to increase immunity. With the massive death rate of the second wave of COVID-19 in 2021, we have become all the more cautious and concerned about personal health. This is because boosting our immune system is still considered one of the most effective ways to prevent contracting COVID-19.
While doctors and other medical health workers have been actively educating the masses on how to boost immunity, the mutating nature of the virus adds a lot of ambiguity. Therefore, despite the vaccinations, we should not stop following COVID protocols.
Now that lockdowns are easing and we may be going out, it is important to understand if we have good immunity against the virus. Here are a few things that can be helpful.
Not sure if you had COVID or had come in close contact with a COVID patient and did not develop COVID symptoms? Or you have recovered from COVID, then test yourself for IgG COVID antibodies. This test tells you that you have been infected with COVID in the past and now you have developed antibodies.
The vaccines developed for COVID-19 have till now proven to be about 90% effective against the deadly disease. Moreover, this 90% protection is only guaranteed after the second dose of vaccination. People who have been vaccinated can undergo the COVID Spike S1 Antibody Test. This can give an idea of if antibodies have developed and how many. Such antibodies reduce the probability of getting the infection or manage the severity of it.
To better understand the health of our immune system, we can undergo other simple diagnostic tests as well.
People undergoing COVID treatment are prescribed heavy doses of medication that can often be harmful to the kidney and liver. Therefore, taking a Kidney Function Test (KFT) and a Liver Function Test (LFT) is beneficial to understand the status of your kidney before stepping outside.
Quite a lot of us are now working from home and rarely get a healthy exposure to sunlight. This can result in vitamin D deficiency that can prove detrimental to our immune system. To identify the extent of deficiency, it is advisable to take tests that also identify the levels of Vitamin C, D and B12 in our body. Comprehensive tests that include the aforementioned, as well as Complete Blood Count (CBC) and Haemoglobin count, can also give us a good idea about our level of immunity.
Also Read: Sepsis: A Guide to Understanding Its Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment
With the arrival of the monsoon, many of us are even more prone to contracting infectious diseases like the flu and the common cold. To understand how to make the immunity system stronger during such times of season change, it is better to first get an idea of your current health status.
Also Read: Benefits of Cloves Sexually: Exploring Evidence-Based Enhancements
When looking for ways and means on how to increase immunity, it is important to know the current status of our immune system. This is because to boost our immunity we need to first know where we stand and only then can we set our health goals right. Therefore, by standing together as a community that is well-informed about personal health, we can overcome this pandemic. Also, with the help of diagnostic insights about our personal health, India can fight COVID-19 successfully.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
Although COVID-19 causes comparatively milder problems in children than elderly individuals, some kids may need extra medical attention because of MIS-C symptoms. Children may rarely develop unusual and severe symptoms even after they have recovered from COVID-19. MIS-C after COVID-19 is a severe and fatal complication in children which needs prompt diagnosis for a reliable cure. The full name of this condition is Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in children. It can affect children with a history of COVID-19 infection even weeks after the children are free from the COVID-19 infection.
MIS-C in children can lead to inflammation of some of the most vital organs such as the brain, heart, lung and kidneys. MIS-C can also cause swelling of eyes, skin and other organs in the digestive system of children. Prompt medical attention is significant because these symptoms can lead to fatal complications in children. MIS-C might harm vital organs, including the heart, because of extensive blood clotting. The swelling or inflammation caused by MIS-C in children is also harmful to the digestive system, blood vessels, brain and kidneys.
Most children who catch the COVID-19 virus have only a mild illness. But in children with MIS-C , after infection with the COVID-19 virus, the blood vessels, digestive system, skin or eyes become swollen and irritated. MIS-C is rare. It most often happens within 2 months after having COVID-19.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
Observation of MIS-C symptoms plays a vital part in early diagnosis and treatment. MIS-C is a syndrome, which means it is an assortment of signs and symptoms that may involve multiple organs.
One should immediately consult a qualified medical practitioner if the following symptoms are present:
Besides these symptoms, one should also look for the following emergency signs that need prompt medical attention:
You need to remember that the severity and variety of signs and symptoms can differ for different children. One must take the child to an emergency care clinic in the presence of any one of the emergency signs of Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in children highlighted above.
Like in children, adults who have been infected with SARS-CoV-2 can develop MIS (MIS-A) days to weeks after getting sick with COVID-19. Compared with MIS-C, MIS-A can also be more difficult to distinguish from acute COVID-19. However, like children with MIS-C, adults with MIS-A appear to recover quickly from the most dangerous heart-related complications.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.
Since MIS-C is a relatively new syndrome, there is very little knowledge about the exact cause of this post-COVID-19 complication in kids. It may be because of an over-aggressive, defensive reaction of the body to the invading virus. Medical researchers also suspect secondary infection and COVID-19 that may cause multiple signs and symptoms of MIS-C.
Some researchers feel that failure to treat COVID-19 can lead to MIS-C symptoms in children.
They also attribute MIS-C to genetic factors and several theories are being put forward to establish links between genetics and MIS-C, which is a rare condition. It can affect kids ranging from three years old to twelve years old. Failure to diagnose COVID-19 in primary stages and subsequent lack of treatment can lead to MIS-C symptoms.
The best way to prevent MIS-C is to protect against getting SARS-CoV-2 infection, including staying up to date with COVID-19 vaccines and other prevention actions.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.
Observing a child for the symptoms is the only way to detect the onset of MIS-C in time. One should be careful about the occurrence of critical signs, including bluish nails, lips or skin, severe breathlessness and difficulty in staying awake. Doctors will conduct some routine tests including blood, urine, swab, chest X-ray, ECG and so forth.
Doctors follow MIS-C treatment guidelines in India to manage the symptoms and critical health conditions of the child. They give the treatment of MIS-C in a hospital or kids intensive care unit.
Even if you feel that signs of MIS-C in your kid are mild, get the child to a doctor for an expert opinion. Minor symptoms of MIS-C can also lead to long-term problems for the heart or nervous system. Your doctor will recommend some routine tests to rule out any possibility of damage to organs or suggest the treatment for early recovery. Since there is limited medical knowledge about the causes and treatment of MIS-C, the only option is to watch the child for symptoms and report to the child specialist immediately for prompt care.
Also Read: COVID-19 Treatment Protocol For Children
The best policy to avoid post-COVID-19 complications in kids is to protect them from getting COVID-19 infection. Symptoms of MIS-C may not be similar for every child, so there is no need to panic and rush to conclusions. Consultation with your doctor to find the exact cause of symptoms is the most prudent way to deal with such a situation. Most children recover with no complications of MIS-C COVID-19 provided they receive proper treatment in a hospital setup. Only a few of them may have to receive appropriate medical care for a slightly longer period. A recent study in the UK provides a respite to parents. It confirms that most of the symptoms of Pediatric Inflammatory Multisystem Syndrome or MIS-C fade away over six months.
Children who develop some problems with the heart may have to avoid outdoor sports for some time. Incidence of Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in children (MIS-C) is extremely rare. One can prevent it only by preventing COVID-19 infection in kids. So it is necessary to make your kids follow all precautions and preventive measures such as safe distance, hand hygiene and mask usage. One should take special care of kids by avoiding contact with a family member who is COVID-19 positive. Ideally, safeguard kids by protecting every member of your family by observing all necessary precautions and following all instructions from the health authorities.
Disclaimer: The information included at this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional. Because of unique individual needs, the reader should consult their physician to determine the appropriateness of the information for the reader’s situation.
Recently there has been another medical breakthrough in the fight against COVID-19. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has approved a home Rapid Antigen testing (RAT) kit for COVID-19. According to the ICMR, the COVID-19 home test kit manufactured by Mylab Discovery Solutions Ltd, Pune, has been validated and approved. The ICMR has clearly stated that since the COVID-19 home test is a nasal swab test it should be conducted as per the instructions given by the manufacturer in the user manual.
The COVID-19 RAT test enables people to collect their nasal sample and test if they are COVID-19 positive. With the pandemic spreading like wildfire in many states of India, there is immense pressure on diagnostic labs conducting RT-PCR tests. Moreover, the RT-PCR test takes two to three days to give results which delay the start of treatment for positive patients. The ICMR has now approved the COVID-19 home test kit as it gives quick results in fifteen minutes. The guidelines that need to be followed while conducting the COVID-19 RAT test are given below.
The company manufacturing the COVID-19 home test kits promises to make millions of kits for India and that too at an inexpensive price. India has a huge population and regular testing through RT-PCR is not only impossible but also expensive. As a result, many avoid getting tested despite having symptoms. The self-testing kit being cheaper is accessible to a huge portion of the population who earlier refrained from getting tested.
The person using the COVID-19 home test kit must download MyLab’s AI-powered mobile app to get their reports as soon as possible. The home testing mobile app is available in the Google Play store and Apple store and must be downloaded by all users. The mobile app submits the result to ICMR immediately so that patients can get their reports and start treatment if found COVID-19 positive.
The mobile app is a comprehensive guide of the testing procedure and will provide a positive or negative test result to the patient. All users ‘MUST’ click a picture of the test strip after completing the test procedure with the same mobile phone which has been used for downloading the mobile app and user registration.
The home RAT test for COVID-19 is a significant step in our fight against COVID-19. Although less sensitive, it gives patients a sense of direction to start isolation and treatment as soon as found positive. Rapid antigen tests are also cheaper compared to RT-PCR and reduce the excessive pressure and the dependence on RT-PCR tests. But you should consciously follow the instructions given by both ICMR and the home testing kit company before conducting the test at home.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
The recent months have been testing times for everybody in India. Families are getting affected and the COVID-19 infection is spreading faster than before. Although you may not be completely prepared to deal with the situation, proper care of a COVID-19 positive patient in your family is essential while keeping the rest of the family safe.
This article discusses some critical points that you can follow if the virus enters your home and affects a family member.
It is worrisome if a family member tests positive in the RT-PCR test for COVID-19. Here are a few steps that you should follow when you know you have a COVID-19 positive patient at home.
Consult your family doctor or find a doctor nearby for emergency consultation. If he/she has recommended home isolation for the infected member, you may take care in the following manner:
After the laboratory tests and the scan for the COVID-19 positive patient are completed, you must follow all the instructions given by your doctor. If your doctor advises home isolation, you need to prepare for several things to take proper care of the patient. At the same time, protect the rest of the family and yourself from getting infected. The following tips will help you get through:
It is necessary to provide healthy food to the patient.
While you regularly monitor the patient’s oxygen levels and temperature, you should watch for a few more warning signs. Your family member might need oxygen or a ventilator bed. Keep the doctor’s contact number handy. Immediately call a doctor and seek admission to the hospital if you notice the following signs:
Also Read: Can You Get Herpes from Kissing? Demystifying Common Health Myths
While taking care of the infected family member, the following preventive steps are necessary to control the spread of the virus to the rest of the family:
Talk to your doctor about when to end home isolation and the necessary tests to be carried out. Take proper precautions to avoid the spread of the infection. Stay vigilant and immediately contact the doctor in case of an emergency. Help your loved ones recover from COVID-19 while in home isolation.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
Next Page »