The recent spurt in COVID-19 infections in the National Capital Region (NCR) has raised alarm bells, with government agencies trying to find out if a new COVID variant is underway. Mint checks if a fourth wave is coming:
Is this the fourth wave of Kovid-19 infection?
Simply put: it’s too early to say. As soon as the third wave subsided in early February, the Delhi government lifted all COVID restrictions. People let go of their guard and gave up COVID-appropriate behaviour. Many people stopped wearing face masks, which are one of the biggest protections against COVID infection. Delhi recorded 501 fresh Covid-19 cases in the last 24 hours and the positivity rate has now touched 7.72%, indicating that the virus is still circulating and may infect high-risk people. However, doctors have not reported serious cases of hospitalization or increased mortality.
Has a new version been identified?
Not yet. The National Center for Disease Control (NCDC) is analyzing the reasons for the spike across NCR. Light uptick has also been seen in North-Eastern states and Kerala. Samples from across the NCR have been sent for genome sequencing to verify whether any new variants are playing a role in the surge. Results are likely to come by the end of this week. Thereafter, the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi is expected to preside over the meeting with the central and state government. Mandatory mask rules are likely to be reintroduced.
see full image
What types are in vogue now?
Omicron, called a lighter version, has four subtypes—BA.1, BA.2, BA.3, and BA.4. Of these, BA.1 and BA.2 are the major strains in India. As of now, the Omicron version of the X-series is airing in India – it originated when BA.1 and BA.2 merged. Last year, the Delta variant was widespread in the country, a more lethal variant than Omicron.
Will schools be closed again?
Closing schools again would be a knee-jerk reaction, especially in the backdrop of the learning losses of the last two years. However, children below 12 years of age are not yet vaccinated in India. Many experts say there is little data to suggest they need to be jab. Let us tell you that some cases are being reported among school children in NCR. Experts have advised that schools maintain well-ventilated classrooms, conduct classes in shifts with fewer students and ensure that all students do not eat lunch at the same time.
What does the global scenario suggest?
Cases of Kovid-19 are seeing an increase in many cities of China and Europe. Shanghai continues to record thousands of cases every day, despite China implementing a ‘zero COVID strategy’. This is clearly not a good sign for other countries – the world risks losing all the gains made in controlling the infection over the past two years. However, experts said that people in India have developed immunity through both natural infection and vaccination. Even with the recent spike in NCR, the situation in the country, and at large, is far better.