Omicron alert: Top doctors warn India of massive third wave

The Indian Medical
Association (IMA) has urged the government to provide additional vaccine doses
for frontline and healthcare workers, apart from immunocompromised individuals.
The request comes due to rising concerns about the omicron variant, with 21
cases being discovered so far in the subcontinent. They further stated that the
vaccination process for those aged between 12 and 18, should be expedited.

Also Read | What is Omicron?

At a press conference,
the IMA noted that most major states of India were reporting omicron cases and
the numbers are likely to go up. Further, they stated that going by experience from countries of
origin, this variant displays an extremely high penetrability, as compared to the
Delta variant.

India is just limping
back from the devastating effects of the second wave. If the country does not
take the right measures, it could be facing a massive third wave. They have
recommended an altruistic focus on vaccination, with it becoming a priority. Further,
the government has been advised to ensure that the second dose is administered,
and vaccines reach those who have been excluded in the vast country.

The association was
also cognizant of the fact that over 50% of the Indian population has received
at least one dose. They added that vaccination has proved itself capable of
stopping more severe forms of COVID infections. At the present juncture, the
IMA did not support travel bans, but advised everyone to avoid unnecessary travel
and use the proper precautions in public transport.

Also Read | Omicron could replace Delta variant, warns British scientist

Since African
countries, where the omicron variant has spread, have witnessed an uptick in
the number of children being infected and admitted in ICUs, the IMA strictly
suggested that all schools and colleges should specially focus on ensuring
safety protocols.

Notably, omicron has
turned out to be less severe in causing infections but is definitely more
contagious. Therefore, stepping up the immunization process can help prevent a
third wave from bringing India to a standstill.