Recognizing the Omicron BA.4 . Subvariant

The Omicron BA.4 subvariant was first discovered in South Africa in early 2022. This subvariant is thought to be spreading more rapidly than the previous Omicron subvariant, but so far, there is no indication that the subvariant Omicron BA.4 causes more severe symptoms.

Since it first appeared in 2021, the Omicron variant of the Corona virus has mutated into several subvariants, namely BA.1, BA.2, and BA.3, until the latest ones are BA.4 and BA.5 subvariants.

Recognizing the Omicron BA.4 . Subvariant

The Omicron BA.4 subvariant is known to have a lower disease severity than the previous Omicron subvariant. However, Omicron BA.4 is known to be more contagious and can escape the defenses of the immune system. This puts the BA.4 subvariant at risk for reinfection with COVID-19 in the future.

Facts about the Omicron BA.4 Subvariant

Research on the Omicron BA.4 subvariant is still very limited. Researchers also don't know whether this subvariance can cause a higher spike in COVID-19 cases than the previous Omicron subvariance.

To date, more than 40 countries have reported cases of the Omicron BA.4 subvariance, including Indonesia. Patients who were confirmed positive for the Omicron BA.4 subvariance usually experienced mild symptoms or no symptoms at all. This condition is strongly suspected to be related to complete vaccinations and booster that have been accepted by the community.

The symptoms of the Omicron BA.4 subvariant COVID-19 so far are similar to the symptoms of COVID-19 in general. Here are some of the symptoms of COVID-19:

  • Sore throat
  • Aches or pains in muscles
  • Fever
  • Cough
  • Cold
  • Stuffy nose
  • Headache

Even though COVID-19 caused by the Omicron BA.4 subvariant has mild symptoms, the disease should not be underestimated. Everyone, especially vulnerable groups, such as children, the elderly, and people with comorbid diseases, are advised to continue to follow health protocols and get the COVID-19 vaccine.

Capabilities of COVID-19 Vaccination against Omicron BA.4 Subvariant

Meanwhile, all types of COVID-19 vaccines are still considered effective in reducing the severity of the disease and reducing the risk of death from infection with the Omicron BA.4 subvariant Corona virus.

Studies have also shown that getting 3 doses of the mRNA vaccine is beneficial in reducing the risk of hospitalization during the Omicron wave.

So, make sure you get the full dose of COVID-19 vaccine and booster to protect the body from the severity of the disease if infected with the Corona virus.

You can also break the chain of transmission of the Omicron BA.4 subvariant by taking the following steps to prevent COVID-19:

  • Use a mask when doing activities outside the home, especially if the activity is done indoors and is attended by many people
  • Wash your hands regularly
  • Avoid crowds
  • Maintain physical distance from other people
  • Improve air ventilation in enclosed spaces
  • Covering mouth and nose with elbow or tissue when coughing and sneezing
  • Clean surfaces that you touch frequently, such as doorknobs, cell phones, laptops, or desks, regularly

PCR test and antigen test can still be used to diagnose COVID-19 caused by Omicron BA.4 subvariant. You can do the test if you experience the symptoms of COVID-19 as mentioned above.

If you still have questions about the Omicron BA.4 subvariant, don't hesitate to consult a doctor in person or through the chat feature with a doctor on the ALODOKTER application. Also make sure to always take care of your body health and implement health protocols to prevent infection with Omicron BA.4 subvariant.

Label : Health cat_Health

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