News Update

India reports 4 cases of BF.7 strain; IMA advices to mask up

• ByStartupStory     |    December 23, 2022

Coronavirus has resurfaced, this time as the BF.7 strain of Omicorn. The same strain has caused a significant increase in cases in China and is now spreading to the Indian subcontinent.

According to a press release issued by the Indian Medical Association (IMA) on December 22nd, India has reported 124 new cases in the last 24 hours, four (three in Gujarat, One in Odisha) of which are the new China variant- BF.7. According to the Association, approximately 5.37 million cases have been reported in the last 24 hours from major countries like, the United States, United Kingdom, Japan, South Korea, France, and Brazil. Previously, Eric Feigl-Ding, an epidemiologist and health care expert, expressed concern that within the next 90 days, more than 60% of the Chinese population and 10% of the global population will be infected, killing millions.

According to Chinese experts, the BF.7 strain of Omicron Covid-19 variants primarily causes upper respiratory infections. Some people may experience stomach-related symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea; however, those with weakened immune systems and pre-existing medical issues are more likely to develop serious diseases. Other common symptoms include fever, sore throat, runny nose, and cough.

Moreover, PM Narendra Modi chaired a high-level meeting with top government officials to assess the Covid-19 situation in India. The PM has advised states to audit COVID-19 specific facilities to ensure operational readiness of hospital infrastructure, including oxygen cylinders, PSA plants, ventilators, and human resources. On a daily basis, states have been asked to share a larger number of samples with designated INSACOG Genome Sequencing Laboratories for genome sequencing.

According to the IMA, the situation is not yet alarming, but both the government and its citizens must exercise extreme caution. It further advised the citizen to:

1.  Face masks are to be used in all public places.
2. Social distancing is to be maintained.
3. Regular hand washing with soap and water or sanitizers.
4. Public gatherings like marriages, political or social meetings etc. to be avoided. 
5. Avoid International travel.
6. Consult the doctor in case of any symptoms like fever, sore throat, cough, loose motions etc.
7. Get your COVID vaccination including precautionary dose at the earliest
8. Follow the government advisory issued from time to time.

Follow Startup Story