New COVID Variants: What You Need to Know in India
New COVID-19 variants, Nimbus and Stratus, have recently emerged, causing global concern, including in India. While these variants spread rapidly, they do not appear to cause more severe illness than their predecessors. Symptoms associated with Nimbus include fever, fatigue, congestion, muscle aches, and a painful sore throat. Stratus, on the other hand, tends to cause similar symptoms, including fever, cough, and loss of taste or smell.
India has already confirmed cases of these variants, highlighting the need for ongoing vigilance. Vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, unvaccinated individuals, and those with pre-existing health conditions like diabetes and heart disease, are at higher risk. Dr. Neha Rastogi, a consultant at Fortis Memorial Research Institute, emphasizes the importance of awareness regarding these new strains.
Treatment for Nimbus and Stratus is similar to earlier COVID-19 waves. High-risk patients may be prescribed antiviral medications like Paxlovid and Molnupiravir if treated early. Supportive care, including rest, hydration, and oxygen management, remains essential. In moderate to severe cases, hospitalization may be required, which could involve oxygen therapy and steroids. Early evaluation and treatment are critical to preventing complications.
Prevention is still the best approach against the spread of these new variants. Vaccination and booster shots continue to provide significant protection against severe illness. Wearing masks in crowded or poorly ventilated spaces, frequent hand washing, and practicing respiratory hygiene can help reduce transmission. Testing and quarantine measures remain vital, especially during festivals and gatherings.
In India, both Covishield and Covaxin have shown effectiveness against the new strains. Covishield offers 80-85% protection, while Covaxin provides around 70% protection against infection and over 90% against severe disease. Booster doses greatly enhance immunity, making them particularly recommended for the elderly and those with chronic illnesses.
Since 2020, India has improved its pandemic response capabilities significantly. With widespread testing, including RT-PCR and rapid antigen tests, and a robust genomic surveillance network, the country is better equipped to tackle new COVID-19 challenges. Having administered over two billion vaccine doses, India boasts one of the largest vaccination campaigns globally.
As the public health protocols evolve, it is crucial to remain cautious. Although the new variants may not lead to more severe illness, their ease of transmission necessitates ongoing preventive measures to manage their spread effectively.
