It has been greater than three years, however the world continues to reel towards the microscopic villain, Covid-19. Whereas infections aren’t as harmful as they have been firstly of the pandemic, the risk nonetheless looms massive. Since Covid variants have the tendency to mutate, there’s no certainty which variant may set off the subsequent wave. With new Omicron variants XXB, and BQ.1 getting into India, it’s essential to maintain your guard up towards the illness.
Well being Photographs reached out to Dr Umang Agrawal, Infectious Illnesses Marketing consultant, PD Hinduja Hospital and MRC, Mahim, Mumbai that will help you perceive if Omicron’s new variants are extra harmful and find out how to safeguard your self.
Right here’s what you must learn about Omicron’s new variants
New Omicron variants have entered India and they’re inflicting the infections to rise at a speedy tempo. XXB, BQ.1, BQ.1.1, and BF.7 are among the many newest Omicron variants inflicting a big rise in COVID instances within the nation.
“Virus have a pure tendency to mutate. So, it’s not a shock {that a} new omicron variant has lately been found. As per the World Well being Organisation, the information obtained thus far pertaining to this variant doesn’t point out it to be extra harmful or trigger extreme illness or extra ICU admissions. They’ve, nevertheless seen an growing incidence of reinfection with this specific variant predominantly in those that had been contaminated previous to the omicron Period,” explains Dr Agrawal.
“There have been some reviews suggesting that instances of lengthy Covid have elevated. Nonetheless, almost about my very own follow, I’ve not likely seen lots of sufferers coming in with lengthy Covid a minimum of presently. Extra information is required to substantiate this specific discovering. As for the signs, this specific variant is much like some other variant of Covid or Omicron at current,” he states.
Nonetheless individuals who have low immunity are at the next threat of getting a extreme an infection, as per the skilled. The chance of an infection additionally depends upon the precautions you are taking towards Covid, together with social distancing and masking. The severity of the illness depends upon the immune system of the host. That is the rationale you must increase your immunity.
Immunity-boosting meals to combat Omicron
Pavithra N Raj, Chief Dietitian, Manipal Hospitals, Yeshwanthpur, Bengaluru shared a listing of immunity-boosting meals with Well being Photographs.
1. Protein-rich meals
Protein is a should in your immunity eating regimen. It additionally retains your lungs protected from ailments. Eggs, almonds, lentils, chickpeas, nuts, milk, oats, salmon, and so on. are a number of the meals that you could embrace in your eating regimen. You can even add protein-rich snacks like boiled groundnuts, boiled eggs, Sundal, boiled corn, soya and boiled gram usli.
2. Vitamin C wealthy meals
A pure complement and antioxidant, vitamin C will assist maintain your physique wholesome and keep at bay an infection quicker. The most effective sources of vitamin C is Amla. Not solely does it assist increase immunity, but additionally your metabolism and forestall viral and bacterial infections.
3. Vitamin B6 meals
It’s a essential vitamin that helps the biochemical response within the immune system. Oatmeal, wheat germ, brown rice, soya beans and eggs are good sources to incorporate in your eating regimen.
4. Vitamin E
A robust antioxidant, vitamin E helps combat infections like Covid. Plant oils, greens, nuts and seeds are good sources of vitamin E.
5. Black pepper
Since black pepper comprises antibacterial properties, it may be an excellent addition to your eating regimen. You may sprinkle some on on a regular basis dishes to profit from it.
6. Natural teas
Hail tea lovers, you’re in for a deal with! Natural teas containing cinnamon, pepper, basil, cardamom or ginger is usually a welcome boost to your immunity-boosting eating regimen. They’re usually wealthy in antibacterial properties and antioxidants.
7. Turmeric milk
The antibacterial and antigen properties in a glass of milk with a tinge of turmeric ought to be sufficient to persuade you to make it part of your eating regimen.
8. Water
Don’t neglect to remain hydrated! Drink 3-4 litre of water day-after-day to detox and take away toxins out of your physique.
