Tracing Omicron Cases in Indonesia: 60 People Test Positive, What Are the Symptoms?

Kapanlagi.com - News about the B.1.1529 variant of the Corona virus or Omicron in Indonesia is spreading rapidly, following the discovery of the latest Covid-19 variant at the Covid-19 Emergency Hospital in Wisma Atlet Jakarta.As it is known, three cleaning staff at the Wisma Atlet Hospital were reported to be positive for the Omicron variant of Covid-19.

This was revealed directly by the Minister of Health, Budi Gunadi Sadikin, on December 16, 2021, through a virtual press conference.According to Budi, the three individuals were first known to be positive for Covid-19 on December 8, 2021. Genome sequencing testing was then conducted at the Balitbangkes. The results came out on December 15, 2021, where the three individuals were found to be exposed to Omicron.

From the first case finding, the government conducted tracing on 250 close contacts and found 60 positive cases of Covid-19. Although it has not been confirmed whether it is the Omicron variant or not, the government has taken necessary measures and requested the public to start being cautious.

Expert Predictions about Omicron

The Omicron virus variant could be a significant step in the transition of the pandemic to becoming endemic according to experts. The Executive Director of Bain Capital Life Sciences, Dr. Adam Koppel revealed that the Omicron variant, which is currently spreading in several countries, is very concerning and has the potential to become the dominant global strain.

Scientists who have studied this new variant have not yet found indications of severe illness when infected with Omicron. Unlike Delta, which shows more severe symptoms.

According to Dr. Erlina Burhan, M.Sc, Sp.P(K), a specialist lung doctor in one of her interviews on a national TV station, she added that the replication of the Omicron variant is more abundant in the respiratory tract.

“Reports from various countries, such as Israel, Japan, and also Korea, mention that Omicron cases are often found in people who have been fully vaccinated. There are even some cases that have received boosters. This indicates that Omicron has milder symptoms compared to Delta, but it can evade the immune system,” explained Dr. Erlina.

Cough Becomes a Typical Symptom of Omicron

Omicron is a mutation of the Corona virus that was first detected in South Africa and is now spreading in various countries around the world. First reported on November 24, 2021, Omicron is already categorized as a Variant of Concern (VOC) that can cause increased transmission and deaths, and even affect vaccine effectiveness.

Researchers at the CDC have proposed an early symptom profile for Omicron. Includes coughing by 89% while other symptoms are easily tired (65%), cold or stuffy nose (59%), fever (38%), nausea (22%), shortness of breath (16%), diarrhea (11%), anosmia or loss of smell (8%).

If experiencing these symptoms, it does not necessarily mean being immediately concluded as being affected by the Omicron variant. Further tests need to be done to obtain a clear diagnosis. Don't forget to prevent cough and itchy throat symptoms with Komix Herbal. With the composition of legundi leaves and red ginger that effectively relieve coughs while maintaining the immune system. Furthermore, do not relax in implementing Health protocols and prepare Komix Herbal at home!

(kly/tmi)