Omicron subvariant BF.7 symptoms, transmissibility and treatment - All explained

Omicron Subvariant BF.7: With the emergence of new Omicron variants leading to many countries to witness a steep rise in Covid cases, the government has ordered to step up vigil and increase monitoring the points of entry and highlighted the need for community awareness for continued implementation of the Covid Appropriate Behaviour (CAB).

The latest variant in the question is Omicron Subvariant BF.7. It is said to be contagious and has a vast number of symptoms, ranging from sore throat, congestion to fatigue. The variant is believed to have originated from a region of Mongolia in China.

The cases of the new variant have been reported in the US, Britain, India, Australia, Belgium and other countries.

In view of the looming threat, the government has stressed on the need to undertake adequate testing (with higher proportion of RT-PCR tests) and effective surveillance to assess and control the spread of infection in a timely manner. Besides, officials have been directed to closely monitor hospitalisations due to Covid-19 and increase pace of vaccination including precautionary dose to the eligible beneficiaries.

Omicron Subvariant BF.7 Symptom, Precaution, Treatment 

According to Dr Akshay Budhraja, consultant at Aakash Healthcare Super Specialty Hospital, the most common symptoms of the new variant include sore throat, congestion, fatigue, cough and runny nose.

He said that the best way to limit the spread of the virus is to take precaution. Speaking to Zee Business, Dr Akshay advised to follow the appropriate Covid behaviour and avoid crowded areas.

"We should be cautious by isolating ourself if sick, wearing a good protective mask, avoiding mass gatherings and following covid appropriate behaviour," he said.

Covid-19 cases rising with each additional variant and subvariant, putting the vulnerable and old people at risk.

"The new variant of omicron known as BF.7 is a variant of concern in many countries like the US, France, UK and Germany, due to its high transmissibility and capability to evade immunity from prior infections or vaccinations," the doctor said.

Akshay suggested wearing a mask and avoiding overcrowding because the weather is changing in India and people are more susceptible to viral illnesses. This, he said, will help prevent a generalised increase in respiratory viral infection cases.