Shaheer Ahmed
Amid the rise of the Omicron variant cases in the world, Pakistan has been prompt to initiate a vaccination booster drive. Pakistan’s Covid response body has recommended everyone aged 30 and above to get booster shots in order to make the antibodies stronger. These vaccine shots are free of cost. The NCOC is now encouraging people to get vaccine boosters and vaccines for those who haven’t already as the new Omicron variant is spreading rapidly in the world.
What is a booster shot and why is it important?
Booster shots are administered to remind the body’s immune system about the virus it needs to defend against. This improves or gives the immune system a boost. When it comes to the ongoing pandemic such as COVID-19, these shots are administered to improve protection. With a booster dose, the immune system is primed to recognize and create antibodies against the virus it was initially created to defend.
As new and stronger variants of Coronavirus are being discovered such as the Omicron, vaccination boosters are necessary to improve the performance of antibodies. Gradually, the strength of antibodies against viruses decreases and it is highly important to administer a booster shot for protection. People aged 30 and above are especially vulnerable to the new variants of the virus and the need to induce a booster shot is highly important for their health.
Given what we currently know about COVID-19 and the Omicron variant, CDC (Centre for Disease Control and Prevention) is shortening the recommended time for isolation. From 10 days for people with COVID-19 to 5 days, if asymptomatic, and 5 days of wearing a mask when around others. Isolation for 5 days followed by wearing a well-fitting mask will minimize the risk of spreading the virus to others is the new recommended process for vaccinated people. However, the unvaccinated folks have to maintain 10 days of isolation and then return with a negative result to by still following the SOP’s i.e. to wear a mask at all times. It has, however, been urged to wear a mask and use sanitizers at all costs. This is the only way to avoid spreading the virus.
Pakistan is yet to implement the new guidelines of isolation stated by the CDC. Nevertheless, the drive for vaccination boosters will to be conducted under strict monitoring. Although, the Omicron variant hasn’t spread in Pakistan yet but prevention against it is to be made compulsory. If you or your loved ones are above 30 and have gotten vaccinated at least 6 months back, do get a vaccination booster shot. It is only to protect everyone from the new variants for which we are minimally informed.
Also read: https://neemopani.com/the-knowns-and-unknowns-of-omicron-variant/
