What is a B.1617 variant?
It is a new variant of coronavirus detected first in India caused by double mutation, first of its kind. It is also said to be main reason behind surge in pandemic cases in India right now. The variant has also been found in other countries including the U.S., the U.K., Australia, New Zealand and now Canada.
What is a Variant of Concern (VOC)?
A variant of concern (VOC) as defined by CDC is a mutation of the COVID-19 virus with more severity of the illness, more transmission or spread, or less effectiveness of a vaccine or diagnostic test.
Is India on the cusp of second wave of Coronavirus?
Despite vaccination drive, the number of cases affected by Coronavirus have increased significantly in recent weeks. It has lead to more restrictions and control measures. The public has been requested to maintain distance, wear masks and use sanitizers as much as possible to avoid large scale impact. Infections trend is rising the states—Kerala, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh and some union territories as well.
When will be the Coronavirus vaccine available for me?
The Government is likely to start vaccination by January 2021. It will be prioritised. First frontline workers and first responders like paramedical staff, civil servants, police, army, politicians and their relatives will get it first. People more than 50 years of age and those with co-morbidities like diabetes, HT, transplant and chemotherapy patients will get it next. Then will be healthy adults, teenagers, children and last neonates if at all.
What is the recommended dose and schedule? What if I take one dose?
Health experts recommend two doses given 21 days or 28 days apart depending on type of vaccine used.
One dose will give you only partial protection of maybe 60-80% and will not last long enough. For complete protection you must take two doses at recommended intervals. Even if you forget to take second dose, just take the second dose at the earliest. No need to repeat the first dose.
What are the symptoms of Coronavirus (also known as COVID-19)?
The most common symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, dry cough, and tiredness. Other symptoms that are less common and may affect some patients include aches and pains, nasal congestion, headache, conjunctivitis, sore throat, diarrhea, loss of taste or smell or a rash on skin or discolouration of fingers or toes. These symptoms are usually mild and begin gradually. Some people become infected but only have very mild symptoms.
Source: World Health Organization
How many cases are in India now?
Click here to see latest coronavirus numbers in India
What is the recovery time from the coronavirus?
Most people (about 80%) recover from the disease without needing hospital treatment. Around 1 out of every 5 people who gets COVID-19 becomes seriously ill and develops difficulty breathing. Older people, and those with underlying medical problems like high blood pressure, heart and lung problems, diabetes, or cancer, are at higher risk of developing serious illness. However, anyone can catch COVID-19 and become seriously ill. People of all ages who experience fever and/or cough associated with difficulty breathing/shortness of breath, chest pain/pressure, or loss of speech or movement should seek medical attention immediately. If possible, it is recommended to call the health care provider or facility first, so the patient can be directed to the right clinic.
Source: World Health Organization
Any tips to keep safe from coronavirus?
- Wash hand frequently or use hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
- Wear face mask while going out in public spaces.
- Keep distance of at least 2 meters.
- Avoid large crowds.
- Keep surface around you clean and disinfected.
Can I make coronavirus vaccine at home?
No, Coronavirus or COVID-19 is caused by a virus that’s closely related to the one that causes SARS. While the world over, scientific community and organizations are scrambling to develop a vaccine, there is not one available in the market yet.
Making vaccine involves intensive research, trials and complex process that can not be achieved without proper laboratory equipment and research facilities.