The CDC has stated that “breakthrough” omicron cases are likely, but why? According to experts, vaccine efficacy is lower against omicron, due to the fact that omicron’s mutations make it more transmissible than other variants and more able to evade the passive immunity that is acquired from being vaccinated.
Aren’t vaccines supposed to help, though? Yes, and they are. Our AFC Urgent Care Chattanooga team explains why below.
What Are Breakthrough Cases?
According to the CDC, a breakthrough case is when a person tests positive for COVID-19 at least two weeks after becoming fully vaccinated, including receiving a booster dose when eligible.
The CDC has also stated that breakthrough infections should be expected because no vaccine is 100% effective in preventing viral infection. However, the primary goal of vaccines is to prevent serious illness, hospitalization and death, which the COVID-19 vaccine and booster injections have proven to be effective in doing.
Common Omicron Symptoms
- Cough
- Fatigue or tiredness
- Congestion and runny nose
- Sore throat
- Headache
How Can Omicron Be Prevented?
Despite the fact that breakthrough infections have occurred, vaccines and booster doses remain the most effective protection against this highly contagious variant. In fact, in recent CDC trials, booster doses were found to be 90% effective in preventing hospitalizations due to omicron.
Other health habits, which we’ve included below, can significantly minimize your chances of testing positive for omicron.
Ways to Prevent Omicron Infection
- Wear a well-fitting N95 or KN95 mask. These offer the highest level of protection, according to the CDC.
- Wash your hands with soap and water thoroughly and often. Make sure to wash for at least 20 seconds each time to properly rid of lingering bacterial and viral particles.
- Be smart with where you go and the events you attend. Even though physical distancing is still recommended by the CDC, not many adhere to it anymore. If you are immunocompromised, live with someone who is at high risk of becoming seriously ill or you have young children at home, you may want to be more cautious and keep your distance in public.
Our AFC team is here for you now and always! Don’t hesitate to visit us today if you feel under the weather.
