Omicron: PMA Shows Grave Concern Over New COVID-19 Variant

KARACHI: The Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) is concerned with the newly categorised Covid-19 variant by the World Health Organization (WHO), namely Omicron, which is considered "highly transmissible".

It was first detected in South Africa and now reaches other parts of the world through travellers. In South Africa, very mild to moderate symptoms of this variant is clinically found with no loss of smell or taste.

PMA once again warns the government to be prepared and vigilant and immediately take preventive measures to prevent this variant from entering our country.

They suggest imposing a temporary ban on air travel from southern Africa and other countries of this region. They strongly advise the government to improve the airports and other country entry points.  The government should scan and monitor the passengers and resume the Covid-19 antigen test at airports, especially those from high-risk countries like South Africa. If anybody is found with symptoms of Covid-19, they should be quarantined at entry points for monitoring. The patients who test positive for COVID-19 should be kept in isolation facilities.

The PMA urges that the government should take all the required preventive measures and immediately implement Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) strictly. If the government fails, Pakistan may face another wave of Covid-19, most likely by the mid or end of December. And this wave could be worse because Omicron is more contagious compared to other variants. Healthcare professionals and government officials alike should be cautious to avoid any situation that could worsen the pandemic situation in the country.

The PMA requests people to get vaccinated. The people who do not get vaccinated could face the intensity of the disease. They ask that the general public adopt preventive measures, wear masks, keep social distancing, sanitising at proper intervals, and avoid physical contact with others.

"Moreover, by preventing Covid-19, we will keep moving our trade and business; otherwise, the government will be compelled to impose Corona related restrictions again. Be aware that even if you are vaccinated, you can still get infected with mild to moderate symptoms. This is a wake-up call only, so do not be in a panic." concluded the statement by the PMA.