Breakthrough COVID-19 infections have become significantly more common since the omicron variant’s recent surge. The reason for this is that the omicron variant of the COVID-19 virus is considerably more transmissible than previous COVID-19 virus types due to its unique mutations.

As a result, it becomes more capable of eluding the vaccinations’ passive immunity. Continue reading for more information about COVID-19 and the omicron variant from our AFC Urgent Care Indian Trail team.

What Are Breakthrough Infections?

The CDC defines a “breakthrough” case as when a person tests positive for COVID-19 at least two weeks after becoming fully vaccinated, including receiving a booster dose when eligible.

Because no vaccination is 100% effective in preventing viral infection, the CDC expects outbreaks. However, the primary goal of vaccinations is to prevent serious illness and hospitalizations, which the COVID-19 vaccine and booster doses have proven to be effective at. During the surge of the omicron variant, it’s important to be aware of its common symptoms. We’ve listed them below.

Most Common Omicron Symptoms

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

What Can Be Done to Prevent Omicron?

Vaccines and booster doses remain the best, most effective protection against this highly contagious variant, despite the fact that breakthrough infections have occurred. Booster dosages were proven to be 90% efficient in avoiding omicron hospitalizations in recent CDC trials.

Other health practices, which we’ve included below, can substantially reduce 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.

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