The new COVID-19 variant Omicron having been found in at least 20 countries, including Nigeria, we must step up our efforts to safeguard ourselves, our families, and those around us.
While much about the strain is unknown, there is a lot that can be done to reduce its hazards
Organizations like the Coalition Against COVID-19 (CACOVID) have risen to the task of teaching Nigerians on how to remain safe from the virus in various ways.
Get vaccinated
Vaccination and booster doses will, without a doubt, determine our fate in the following months. Getting vaccinated against Omicron is the greatest method to protect oneself, as studies have shown that the COVID-19 vaccine is highly efficient at reducing sickness, hospitalizations, and death.
Booster shots are indicated if you have been fully vaccinated to further improve your immunity against the virus.
The Federal Government has announced that the booster shots will start being administered from December 10, 2021.
Wear your face mask at all times
Wearing a face mask remains one of the best measures to protect yourself from COVID-19 and all its variants including Delta. You should always wear a face mask when visiting crowded places, or when you are near vulnerable individuals such as the elderly, and those with underlying health conditions. While three-ply cloth masks or surgical masks may suffice in preventing the spread of infectious particles if worn appropriately, many experts think it would be better to use an N95 or KN95 respirator in crowded indoor public spaces.
Get Tested
Increased testing will help to identify Omicron quickly and nip it in the bud to avoid its spread. Swabs from Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) tests, which are sent to labs for analysis, can show if the variant causing the infection looks like Omicron, Delta or something else. If you experience the symptoms of the virus which may include fatigue, headache, scratchy throat, body aches and pains, consult your healthcare provider immediately.
Wash your hands regularly: Personal hygiene remains very crucial at this time. So, always wash your hands regularly with soap and water or make use of a hand sanitiser with at least 70 per cent alcohol content in the absence of water. Also, when in a crowded place, endeavor to stay at least six feet away from anyone whether they are showing symptoms or not. What might be the ultimate protection measure is to try as much as possible to stay at home or limit your contact with the public to a minimum.
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