Breakthrough infections are things that no one wants to see happen. Despite our efforts to get vaccinated and boosted, the omicron variant has still found ways to affect the fully vaccinated, which has been disheartening. However, it’s not a reason to give up hope.

Even though breakthrough infections have become much more likely during the surge of omicron, vaccines and boosters are still highly effective in preventing serious illness and hospitalization, which is the goal of vaccines.

Our AFC Urgent Care Mooresville team provides other helpful info about breakthrough infections below, so keep reading.

What Are Breakthrough Infections?

According to the CDC, a “breakthrough” infection 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 reason breakthrough infections are more likely with the omicron variant is because omicron’s mutations make it more elusive and able to evade the COVID-19 vaccine’s initial protections. Additionally, the omicron variant arrived at an inopportune time, when vaccine-related immunity was starting to wane for people who had gotten their shots early in the year and hadn’t yet been boosted.

Common Omicron Symptoms

• Cough
• Fatigue or tiredness
• Congestion and runny nose
• Sore throat
• Headache

What Can I Do to Prevent Omicron Infection?

The answer remains the same—get the COVID-19 vaccine and booster shot. Both are proven to significantly lower the risk of serious illness and hospitalization, which is what will ultimately put this pandemic in the rearview mirror.

In addition to getting vaccinated and boosted, keep the preventive measures that we’ve listed below in mind.

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.

Have further questions about the omicron variant or need general medical care? We’ve got you covered! Visit our AFC Urgent Care Mooresville location today.