Some symptoms to look out for when sleeping. Image credit: AdobeStock
The new omicron variant might not be as severe as the other variants that the world has encountered so far but this does not mean we do not need booster shots. As expressed by Epidemiologist Mary Louis Mclaws, there is no reason why Australia shouldn’t follow in the UK’s steps by administering booster shots in three months other than 5 months.
As the variant continues to increase infection rates, it is only right to re-evaluate the plan to administer booster vaccines to those who have been fully vaccinated.
She relayed that, “I’m really hoping the authorities realize if they want to have the economy strong and people out spending, then we need to have booster shots no later than four months, but preferably three.”
It is said that that research stating the moicron variant has mild effects has not been peer-reviewed yet and assumptions cannot, therefore, be drawn on how dangerous the variant can be.
Mary Mclaws has included that the omicron variant is three times likely to cause household transmission compared to the delta variant which poses a threat to more infections increasing in the coming days if a decision is not made soon.
As Australians enjoy the Christmas and the New Year period, Dr. Swan urged people to take Covid-safe precautions despite the NSW state government rescinding measures such as the mask mandate.