There have been a lot of breakthrough omicron infections that have happened lately. Naturally, this begs the question—Why?
According to experts, vaccine efficacy is lower against omicron infections, 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. That doesn’t mean that COVID-19 vaccines don’t work, though!
Our AFC Urgent Care Cleveland team highlights more about breakthrough infections and why vaccines and booster shots are still essential below, so keep reading.
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.
Breakthrough infections should be expected, according to the CDC, because no vaccine is 100% effective in preventing viral infection. However, the primary purpose of vaccines is to prevent serious illness and hospitalizations, which the COVID-19 vaccine and booster shown have been shown to be effective in doing. Furthermore, evidence has suggested that omicron breakthrough cases aren’t as severe among the vaccinated. So, if the unfortunate happens and you test positive for the virus even if you’ve been fully vaccinated, you shouldn’t worry too much.
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 happen, COVID-19 vaccines and booster shots remain the most effective protection against this variant. In fact, in recent CDC trials, booster doses were found to be 90% effective in preventing hospitalizations due to omicron.
There are other ways in which you can lower your chances of getting omicron, and we’ve listed some of the most effective ones below.
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.
Need non-emergency medical care? We’re here for you! Don’t hesitate to stop by our AFC Urgent Care Cleveland center today.
