The Omicron BF.7 subvariant, a sub-lineage of the Omicron variant BA.5. The subvariant has caused a massive surge of cases in China causing a new wave of COVID. Japan, South Korea, the United States, and France have also been reporting an alarming surge in COVID cases. Omicron Bf.7 is spreading fast across the world and cases have also been detected in other countries including Belgium, Germany, Denmark, and The UK. Around 4 cases have been reported in India so far. Here, we bring forward to you the important facts you need to know about the new variant.

What do we know so far about the omicron sub-variant BF.7?

  • The BF.7 is a sub-lineage of the Omicron variant BA.5
  • It has a shorter incubation period and is highly transmissible variant 
  • A study published in the ‘Cell Host and Microbe’ journal states that the BF.7variant has 4.4-fold higher neutralization resistance than the original, which means that vaccination is not very effective against the virus
  • It is difficult to detect in RT-PCR test

Who is at risk of getting infected?

  • People with weak immunity (such as elderly people, children, pregnant women)
  • Unvaccinated people
  • Vaccinated people may also be infected, but with milder intensity 

Symptoms of Omicron BF.7 variant 

  • Dry cough that begins mildly, persists and worsens over the course of several weeks
  • Constant sore throat and runny nose
  • Mild to moderate fever
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty in breathing
  • Chest tightness 
  • Intense fatigue and weakness
  • Muscle and joint pains

What precautions should be taken?

  • Get your booster dose vaccination (if you have not yet taken)
  • Wear masks in public places
  • Practice social distancing 
  • Frequent hand sanitization 
  • Do not ignore your symptoms as seasonal cold or cough
  • Avoid unnecessary exposure 
  • Avoid being in heavily crowded areas
  • Avoid being around people who are visibly sick

Take home message - We are all very well aware of the devastation COVID has caused. COVID may present with a full spectrum of symptoms or may be asymptomatic. The infection may be severely impactful or may get better without experiencing much discomfort. Therefore, it is important to take precautions, stay vigilant and report to the doctor without delay in case of any COVID-like symptoms.

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