What has taken the internet and the news media by storm is the proposition of a drug. A 2DG Medicine that has a possibility of usage for the dreaded Coronavirus pandemic is introduced by researchers. The 2 DG, 2-deoxy-D-glucose drug’s formulation is to primarily curb COVID -19. This medicine will target the infected users to help them improve and check its efficiency.
Above all, there is the nationwide introduction of vaccination. Vaccination is a means to create immunity and tolerance as well.
However, there is a hindrance to the approach as well. There are issues with supply and demand. As a matter of fact, it might take some time for the medicine to be in the market for people. There is also a process of waiting that the citizens need to endure before completing the final shot. All in all, more applications in medical field research can help curb the pandemic. This 2DG Medicine is one of the ways that can contribute to the treatment.
Everything Important to Know
When it comes to fulfilling questions, it is important to ask for the right one. Can all patients with Covid-19 take it? Is it suitable for all age groups? These might be some of the questions lingering among the netizens. Well, the good news is, that there is information that might put the worries at ease. When it comes to the drug, it is on a trial period. However, the approval for its launch dictates its rate of productiveness. Patients with Covid-19 infection are the targeted group, for faster recovery. Above all, we can also begin by understanding the drug itself.
What is the 2DG Medicine for?
As we can see numerous cases of Covid-19 in the nation, relying on vaccination might not seem enough. After all, this DRDO 2DG Medicine has come with the hope to change that. This drug has received authorization based on an emergency. The Indian drug regulator has authorized this drug for commencing with the Covid-19 requirement.
How to Take 2DG Medicine of DRDO?
The medicine is for oral intake. Covid-19 patients can take this anti-viral drug. The patient can take the drug by dissolving the powder in water. The approval has resulted in the commencement of the same. There have been numerous requirements for oxygen during the treatment of Covid-19. As per the trials, this DRDO 2DG medicine lowers the dependency on Oxygen. This can be a positive take. Eventually, the testing of patients with RT-PCR has also resulted in more negative results.
Who Made this DRDO 2DG Medicine?
How it came about, is also one of the pieces of information that are sparking curiosity. The Ministry of Defence commenced the launch of the drug. This is a drug developed by INMAS, Institute of Nuclear Medicine, and Allied Science in the DRDO. The DRDO is the Defence Research and Development Organization. They are responsible for the development of defense technology including other necessary equipment for the Armed Forces. The DRDO also includes fields that are part of the developmental program. This research organization includes life science, aeronautics, electronics, engineering, etc.
As a matter of fact, Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories and DRDO collaborated to formulate 2DG Medicine.
How DRDO 2DG Medicine Works?
What we can know regarding the drug is that it is a glycolysis method drug. Glycolysis is process of breaking down glucose to provide energy. Besides this, the drug has also been tested before, concerning cancer. The proposed drug can stop the supply of glucose to the cells. This in turn stops the growth of the virus. All in all, 2DG Medicine prevents the viral synthesis and the production of energy. As per the reports, this medicine only targets the infected cells. Thus, there is no fear of it destroying healthy cells. Stopping the infected cells is a step to stop the infection itself.
This is progress in the approach for Covid-19 treatment. Patients suffering from moderate and severe Covid-19 infection can opt for the 2-deoxy-D-glucose drug after launch.
The prices and distribution of the medication are important. The Covid-19 pandemic has brought about fundraisers and donation drives to accommodate medical equipment and vaccinations. Citizens operated through social networking and created awareness. This is also a result of fear, desperation, and need of the citizens.
Many of the patients and their families were in dire need of medical equipment including oxygen. It won’t be wrong to say that the pandemic has instilled fear and desperation in families. Taking these factors into account is important when understanding the budget. The demand for the required item becomes high when it is hard to curb the pandemic. Therefore, there can be unavoidable black-market circumstances that can also be tangled in the process.
The purchase of goods without hesitation reveals the state of the citizens. Citizens can also depend on government hospitals to provide treatment. There are initiatives taken by the government that is carried out in both rural and urban areas. Easing the burden of expenditure, the task carried out by the medical team is advantageous.
The price for the DROD 2DG Medicine Online currently is Rs. 990 for each sachet. Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories has fixed the price of 2DG drug. However, there is also a cheaper approach that will be provided by government hospitals. Cutting costs can be a productive approach and useful for the citizens. Besides the approach, Dr. Reddy’s DRDO Medicine also guarantees to be available in large quantities with bulk production. This can be a beneficial step in providing and producing for the citizens.
A new variant of the coronavirus is there. It has been declared by a researcher in Cyprus. The new variant combines the Delta and Omicron variant named Deltacron (SARS-COV-2). This variant proclaimed as ten mutations menacing from that of Omicron. So here we will go through all about Deltacron- what you must know.
On January 7, scientists in Cyprus outlined that they had come across a new variant of SARS- COV-2. The variant named Deltacron, which is the amalgamation of Delta and Omicron variants.
Dr. Leondios kostrikis (a professor of biological sciences at the University of Cyprus) stated that the variant has a Delta-like genome omicron attributes. The team affirmed that Deltacron had been recognized in 25 individuals a few hospitalized and a few in the community.
A preprint study, professed the process of genetic recombination (a process in which two variants infect the same host cell) in Deltacron. This is because the variant has the initial evidence of Delta with spike protein of Omicron.
The researchers said they had pinned down the symptoms of variants in three individuals from France and Europe, and calculated that it had been circulating since early January 2022.
However, it was unclear whether more cases of new strain would emerge? Or what would it impact by the time? kostrikis and his team inferred in their report that the 25 cases of the alteration have been recognized. On January 7, it was claimed that the researchers had sent the reports to Gisaid. Gisaid is an international database that monitors viruses.
Assertions in lab contamination
A pinpointing of Deltacron has to led a major share of news coverage and much debate on social media, but experts have interrogated the searches, particularly those in Cyprus.
Dr. Jeffery Barrett, Director of COVID- 19 at the Wellcome Sanger Institute in the United Kingdom trusted that the findings are due to lab fallacy.
Pointing on Twitter, Dr. Tom Peacock, a microbiologist at Imperial College London in the UK, also banished the findings, stating that the Cypriot Deltacron looks quite clearly contaminated. In a distinct tweet, he nonetheless clarified that this was due to poor lab testing but also happened to every lab sequence.
Several oracles have claimed that if Deltacron was candidly a new recombinant variant, samples would clump on a similar branch of SARS-COV-2.
However, Deltacron seems to appear arbitrary on numerous branches, which experts believe is a sure sign of contamination.
Findings Preserved
However, Dr. Kostrikis preserved his findings. He stated that, as the contamination hypothesis was less since the Deltacron septicemia rates were higher in hospitalized patients than in non-hospitalized individuals.
Additionally, the Cyprus team has reported another 52 cases of the variant to the Cyprus Mail. Also, the health minister of Cyprus preserved the findings, saying that this groundbreaking research made him proud of our scientists.
What are the symptoms of Deltacron (SARS-COV-20)?
According to NHS, UK, the symptoms of Deltacron (recombination of Delta and Omicron) are almost similar to that of the past pandemic, but the researchers are still tracking it. The NHS claimed the most common COVID symptoms were:
High temperature
This means that you can detect the temperature by touching your hot chest and back, with no need for any digital appliance.
Continuous coughing
This is worse than an unusual cough such as coughing a lot more than an hour or three or continuing for 24 hours.
However, the findings indicate that those who have recently tested for Deltacron had experienced a lot more symptoms such as loss of smell and taste, runny nose, headaches, and fatigue.
What is the Treatment for Deltacron?
People without cardinal health can initially receive supportive measures like the precedent variant. Additionally, physicians can recommend ACETAMINOPHEN (Tylenol) to cure headaches, muscle aches, or fever.
The Food and Drug Administration (F.D.A) Johnson, stated that Ibuprofen(Advil) and Naproxen (Aleve) are anti-inflammatory medications. A magnificent way to get relief from runny noses, and stuffy noses are to counter decongestants and cough syrups.
How concerned we should be about SARS-COV-2?
According to studies, and comparison of variants, Delta was more severe, threatening, and contagious. Then came the Omicron, which although lenient, lead to widespread alteration and was also found to re-infect those who were earlier infected by COVID-19.
By the findings, experts and virologists claimed that cases of viral recombination were probably rare. This is because there was no lab evidence to state the existence of the same. Experts state that it’s too early to be concerned about the variant. Moreover, in places where Deltacron had made his coverage, the numbers are very low for this infectious disease. But with a bulletin by World Health Organization (WHO), as per current findings, we’re driven to think otherwise. WHO microbiologists Van Kerkhove says, “unfortunately, we do anticipate visualizing recombinants because by the time viruses may change. “We’re expecting an intense level of circulation. We are seeing that variant may infect animals, with the probability of infecting human beings again. So afresh, the pandemic is far from over; she adds.
Vaccination is helpful or not?
The immunity of previous COVID variant and COVID vaccine can reduce the morbidity and associated risk of deltacron.
Do we need a lockdown?
If we again start practicing social distancing, wearing masks, and maintaining hygiene then there is no need for a lockdown.
Why do we need to restructure our daily living?
Outright attempts can maintain the balance between economic, professional, or academic activities. After forecasting, still the risk makes an appearance; we should first remodel our academic and business activities.
Remember, COVID hadn’t gone anywhere. COVID is not just a disease but also a major challenge to our world. If only we focus on these suggestions we came across through any challenge managing future waves.
What is Omicron? It has become a big question and we will see what it is here. Omicron is a variant of coronavirus. It is likely to have arisen in southern Africa. The World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed that Omicron is a Variety of Concern (VoC). This decision has already resulted in a broad shift in pandemic management priorities on a global scale.
Greater surveillance, including virus genome sequencing; targeted study to understand the threats of this variation; and increased mitigation measures, such as mandatory mask-wearing, are among the recommendations of the WHO. Greater Travel Restrictions Due to Omicron has already taken effect in the United Kingdom and many other countries. Japan has effectively closed its doors to all international travelers.
The first known illnesses in Botswana and South Africa occurred just over two weeks ago. In comparison, the delta version is today the most common in Europe and many other regions of the world. Although this variation was initially detected in India in October 2020, it did not gain the heightened status of VoC until at least six months later, despite generating a massive increase in cases in the country.
There was a lag in recognizing the delta’s threat, and lessons have undoubtedly been learned about the significance of acting promptly to nip harmful novel varieties in the bud, or at the very least to delay their spread to buy the world sometimes. However, the difficulty in generating reliable evidence of what a new variety is capable of contributes to the delay.
What is Omicron Virus?
It is a common question that comes to people’s minds. Three sorts of behavior (“phenotypes”) can determine the hazard of a novel variety. Transmissibility (the rate at which it spreads from one person to another), virulence (the severity of disease symptoms), and immune evasion are the three factors (the degree of protection a person receives from the vaccine or natural infection). The genetics and evolutionary processes that underpin these three characteristics are intricate. And, unraveling them necessitates both extensive real-world clinical and epidemiological data and meticulous laboratory trials.
So, what is it about the omicron COVID variant that has caused the WHO, as well as many other specialists around the world, to be so concerned despite the lack of data – and are their warnings that this variant is the “most frightening we have encountered” justified?
There is now no evidence that the omicron virus promotes more serious disease. There is essentially no data on the subject. It requires examination whether anecdotal accounts from South Africa claiming that this variety causes milder symptoms are true. Particularly, in the elderly or otherwise fragile. Nonetheless, there is reason to be concerned about both transmissibility and immunological evasion.
Chaotic Spread of Omicron
It can be difficult to pinpoint a novel variant’s increased transmissibility because stochastic (random) effects can cause frightening spikes in the case of rates. That too without necessitating any underlying changes in viral genetics. Super-spreading or “founding” events can generate huge increases in the prevalence of single lineage by chance when case rates are low, as they have been recently in South Africa.
Despite these considerations, the general consensus is that the omicron variant spreads faster than other types. The introduction of the omicron virus is thought to have raised the R number (the average number of people infected with a virus would infect) from 1.5 to nearly 2 in the South African province of Gauteng, a substantial shift if true. That include the United Kingdom, Israel, Belgium, Canada, Australia, the Netherlands, and Austria.
The fact that the omicron virus marks a major and abrupt evolutionary leap, as evidenced by the record amount of mutations in the genome, is easily the most jaw-dropping aspect. The reason for this is unclear, but 32 changes in the spike protein are reported. Plus, many of them may change how the virus interacts with antibodies produced by immunizations or earlier infection.
This possibility of enhanced immune evasion, along with a rapid rate of dissemination, is causing so much alarm. However, predicting how a virus will behave solely based on its genomic sequence is not an exact science. Furthermore, there is no clear link between the number of mutations in a variety and the potential threats it poses.
While mitigating measures, close surveillance, and a global research effort are all necessary for the omicron variant. It is still too early to say what we are up against. As the data mounts, a clearer picture should emerge in the following weeks.
Meanwhile, the world should be grateful for the vigilance and transparency of South Africa and Botswana scientists and public health officials. Besides this, the development of this variety should serve as a wake-up call to redouble our efforts on a global basis to ensure equitable and timely vaccine administration.
While we begin to navigate the year-long constant battle against the pandemic situation, the continuation has given us knowledge. While still in the process of recovery, new strains of the virus have created netizens to question its impact. After all, we need to understand what we are dealing with. The virus is ever evolving leading to different variants of coronavirus.
Impact of The Corona Virus Pandemic All Over the World
Enormous targets are made by the nation to amplify the severity. When it came down to the citizens, Corona Care Centers are made as an initiative to tackle the pandemic. Medical workers and Government initiatives began overtly.
The phenomenon globally has created more affiliations when resources were imperative. Immediate requirements of hospital beds, Oxygen equipment, and medications rendered the global relation. Putting the ideology of humanity as a focal point, ties commenced.
From global relations come internal affairs. Larger countries undoubtedly dealt with more mayhem. Smaller developed countries had more advantage of maintaining the chaos. The number of demands and needs in relation to the rising cases caused disorganization.
Each country had to overwork their medical workers, in providing essential health provisions. A large working country with rural and urban capacity has basic norms initiated, including separate ones. A medical team is not enough for rural, as much as it is for urban. There is limited access to equipment mandated for Pandemic.
Cases flocked results in referring patients from rural to close semi-urban spaces for treatment. A well-developed country had similar different issues.
Restriction mandated on the citizens was an issue. There was also a slightly incoherent approach from the corporate workplaces in some. The mandated travel for the work, yet the restriction to commodities also created unrest. The different variants of coronavirus also created a further hindrance to the existing preventive measures.
World Health Organization (WHO) Role in the Pandemic
WHO’s role has increased in the rapidly growing global pandemic. Monitoring the impact, the growth, the severity, and the diagnostic measures for creating continuous assessment are carried. There are collaborations for these measures globally. There are expert networks and authorities on the national level involved. Institutions and researchers are in constant works conducting the assessment.
There has been a requirement to take preventive measures for reducing the Covid-19 cases. With the commencement of the early stages of the virus, worldwide active participation becomes inevitable. The early monitoring for the evolution of the virus started in January 2020.
The Variant of Concern (VOC) is a variant of SARS-CoV-2 which can be described as an anomaly. Some pre-requisites consider it a VoC. Factors like a rise in the transmissible capacity and a difference in the clinical presentation are considered. The declining factor of mandated preventive measures is also considered, including the diagnostics and vaccines.
The initiatives taken by the WHO in coping and strategizing against the virus have been continuous. In the wake of the new variant, the amplified measures are still being followed fruitfully.
Member States and WHO Roles
Steps are taken by the WHO for the increasing rates of Covid-19 cases. Different variants of coronavirus are also taken into account.
The Technical Advisory Group and the WHO have relatively assessed different attributes of the virus variants. Checking with the risks on the general citizens, the evaluation is carried out.
In extreme cases, the WHO can collaborate and take measures along with the Member States. This is done to further the investigations.
Now, the outcome of the work is not hidden from the public eye. The Member States also gets to know the discovery.
The procedure followed is always monitored for improvement and changes when mandated.
There are methods followed when a supposed Variant is detected. The Member State’s role is defined in this situation.
Public knowledge is provided. The collected data and genome sequences are then made accessible.
The cases in relation to VOC are simultaneously made known to the WHO.
The features and methods involve include antibody neutralization, immune response, diagnostic steps, and public health and social initiatives. When it comes to functionality, collaboration exists with the international body. There are field inspections conducted and evaluation of laboratory, which provides insight for possible VOC cases.
WHO in Labelling the Variants
The cases for potential VOI can keep changing. Hence, there can reclassification did to predecessors which is no longer a threat on a global scale. The process is refined thoroughly by the trained designated experts. They are responsible for the calculation and arrangements.
The involved participant is the Technical Advisory Group on Virus Evolution. This is determined by multiple criteria. This assessment includes factors like co-relating the different geographical events and duration for the samples. Checking the availability or an absence of any risk component and its influence on the followed measures are included.
There are further measures implicated for observing the cases. An indication of potential threat with the unclear outcome of the epidemiological factors is closely monitored for further changes.
The former declared VOI that is being monitored is on the continuation. Until further anomalies are observed there are no changes recorded for them.
Initial Variant Observations and Findings
New information is always a lot to take in, especially when a worldwide pandemic is a piece of current news. The different variants of coronavirusraise questions. When strains of the new variant hit the news, many outlets were covering the latest bit. This new variant ignited fear and worry. With prolonged time there have been rising cases of more variants.
Many questions align with the new cases from the variant. Questions about the measures, the precautions, the severity, and the treatment are a valid curiosity. The variant in itself is a tempting question. The virus can undergo a mutation. This genetic transformation results in a new variant of the virus.
What are the precautions that can be taken for the new variant of Corona Virus?
When it comes to the initial variant mentioned, there were related doubts. The epitome of spreading is very much the same. Community spread is to be looked out for. When it comes to precautions, effective protocols of mask and social distancing are approved and they are a must and to be followed at all times to ensure safety. Sanitising and washing hands, inclusive of all basic hygiene mandated prior are all to be followed.
How severe is the new variant of Covid-19?
When citizens hear about any new variants, it is immediately correlated to the impact. Now, this is important because awareness results in better care. However, fear-mongering among people is created simultaneously. Understanding the variants is not directly related to your safety.
Now, there is a threat and risk from the new variants. Protocols are being followed and monitored by the relevant authorities. What the citizens can do is continue to be cautious and maintain social distancing to avoid the chances. The state governments have indicated an urgency for lockdown in some states, and liberty in some.
There were alerts when detecting the early variants of epsilon, zeta, and theta. There will also be reclassification if the potential risk factor changes.
Are there different ways of treating a Covid-19 new variant case?
In terms of dependency on the vaccine, there are concerns with its nature. The effectiveness is at 49% on the first dose for the Alpha variant. The Delta variant had 35% effectiveness. Now, on the second dose of vaccination, the Alpha variant had 89% effectiveness. Simultaneously, the Delta variant had 79% effectiveness after the second dose.
A research result by Public Health England recorded that the 2 doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine were less fruitful for the Delta variant. This is done in comparison to a 2 dose Pfizer-BioNtech vaccination. Here, the overall effectiveness is concluded at 33% on 1 dose of Pfizer-BioNtech. Similarly, the AstraZeneca effectiveness was at 33% on 1 dose. And the overall 2 dose effectiveness was 88% for Pfizer-BioNtech and 60% for AstraZeneca.
There is a different result for the immunity characteristic. The maximum immunity result is achieved with the AstraZeneca 2 dose in comparison to the Pfizer-BioNtech. The result stemmed from the findings of the Francis Crick Institute. This provided the importance of immunity boosters and the requirement of the second dose vaccination.
What are the Latest Variants of Covid-19?
Different well variants of coronavirus have hit many nations by storm. There are no short of variants that pique interest globally. Countries like India, Vietnam, and U.K witnessed the new variants. India has reported a case of K417N mutation. This delta plus is a potential risk in reinfection.
The Variant of Interest (VOI) here is a characteristic that has an impact on the SARS-CoV-2. There can be a genetic difference that affects the virus, where the severity and diagnostic escape are compromised.
Another factor is the virus spreading in a cluster. The immediate rise in the community causing epidemiological effects has to be monitored for potential risk. The VOI characteristics can be observed in the worldwide situation and local community.
The Variants of Interest deputed by WHO are the Eta, Iota, Kappa, and Lambda Classified According to The Phases of Covid-19
The Alpha Variant was observed in September 2020 in England. This strain was also dominant in the United States. Much like the U.K. and U.S, there are 173 reported countries with the Alpha variant. This strain was a risk factor mostly for women. As per the analysis, the infection proved to be more fatal towards female patients. There were no similar characteristics found in male patients.
The Beta variant was detected in August 2020 in South Africa. The variant also resulted in spiking cases in the country. 122 other countries also detected the Beta variant cases.
The Gamma variant is detected in almost 74 countries worldwide. This was initially reported in Manaus, Amazon city in December 2020. The variant took a toll on Brazil’s Health care. There were also reports of limited oxygen supplies.
The Delta Variant also known as B.1.617.2, is a rapidly growing variant. Delta variant has 55% more chances of transmission than the Alpha variant. This also has double the impact of the original virus strain. 104 countries are affected by the Delta variant.
As per Yale medicine, the unvaccinated group is more at risk. There is also a reported symptom of hearing impairment, by doctors in India. In comparison to the alpha variant, Scotland had results of 1.8 times more rate of hospitalisation. There is also a potential risk for recovered patients, because of the characteristic to evade antibody-related treatment.
Much like the protocols followed when VOI is discovered, similar precautions are followed for new VOI
The measures are followed by the Member State. They will be required to notify the WHO. There are suitable steps endowed for the situation. There are offices on the regional level, and the details of the individual, and clinical data can be distributed there.
Much like the cases of VOI, a potential new VOI detection can be provided to the public platform. This provides accessibility. GISAID, a platform for public data on virus cases is available.
The impact on public health is always a priority measure. If the potential new VOI is detected, there are inquiries and inspections conducted. The changes in epidemiology and severity are considered. The workings of the public health and other areas created are evaluated.
There are investigations created for laboratory measures. The Member State can reach out to the WHO for assistance and support in these assessments.
The WHO has direct measures taken for any new VOI case in the subject
There will be assessment evaluation subjecting to the different attributes of the VOI.
At a larger context and requirement, the Member State and other collaborators are involved with the WHO.
There is the monitoring of the global cases and reviewing the VOI transmissions and data.
Vaccination is an Effort
Different variants of coronavirus have subjected in questioning the vaccination process. In terms of vaccination as a first initiative, drives are being carried out worldwide. There was potential fear of the blood clot cases reported with the AstraZeneca vaccination. This caused the dependence on other available vaccination. Results are being reviewed for the potential effectiveness of vaccinating two different vaccines. It seemed that with the approval of WHO, on the way, two different vaccines for the doses can be effective and can to an extent try and reduce the symptoms of Covid-19. This is in comparison to two doses from the same vaccination.
Cautions as a Citizen
Protocols are there for a reason. There is basic information provided even while making phone calls. There are ways to get about and extract information. Similarly, treatment for a positive case seems tedious and nerve wrecking but required information is available. Much like the beginning of the pandemic, the protocols are being followed immensely in the cases of the new variants. Individuals can educate and maintain the said decorum for a safe environment.Despite the different variants of coronavirus safety protocols can be prioritized.
The pandemic has taken its toll on us. Experiencing a worldwide phenomenon together with deaths escalating brought about fear, chaos, and thirst for hope. It did not spare anyone child or adult alike. Remote areas and cities too succumbed to this. This resulted in a nationwide lockdown and a decrease in income for the working community. The government had a lot on its plate. The arrival of constant questioning also led to a push in the involvement. Many manufacturers jumped in to hold the reigns and create a vaccine. The information that gave us hope when streaming the news was when the possibility was introduced.
Some of the Wider Know Vaccinations
Pfizer – BioNTech
An American company, Pfizer started placement of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for the pandemic towards the 2020 year-end. The vaccine was intended for citizens of 16 years and above. The vaccine has 2 shots dose. The second dose is to be taken after 21 days. The BioNTech vaccine is done via intramuscular injection. The second dose was said to have more side effects. The vaccinated citizens complained of fever, pain, tiredness, and headache as well. The 2021 year will continue to have Pfizer – BioNTech distributed to the European Union. The number of vaccines to be distributed exceeds 100 million. The recipients were advised of the allergic reaction to the contents of the vaccine.
There are more than 40 counties that were the recipient of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccination. Many European countries and few Asian countries were included. There were cases of lower frequency of distribution to Europe in January and February. However, there will be an increase in the production for the same by March. Countries like the US, UK, Singapore, and Canada are currently using the Pfizer vaccine. The popularity also might be a result of the WHO approval. 2020 winter saw the beginning of this vaccine’s usage in the UK. The number of vaccinations in Asia is comparatively slow to other nations.
AstraZeneca
AstraZeneca, a British and Swedish company is situated in England. In the mid of the pandemic year 2020, the vaccines underwent heavy trials. Towards the end of the year, fruitful results were witnessed in the country.
The vaccine was used in Canada, Europe, Asia, and Middle Eastern areas as well. March of 2021 had cases of side effects with this vaccine. Countries like Latvia and Sweden both decided to temporarily halt their usage of the vaccine. 13 European Union countries have also made the same settlement.
Asian countries have, however, continued to overlook the conditions mentioned in the previous countries. The countries that were using AstraZeneca also believed that the gains surpassed the side effects. Hence, the usage continued. More than millions of AstraZeneca will be produced in 2021 in Asian countries such as South Korea, Thailand, and Japan. Australia is also included in this list. Australia agrees to not halt the usage and therefore, plans to continue the vaccination.
India is also a recipient of AstraZeneca. The AstraZeneca vaccination in India has reached more than 20 million numbers. There were cases of unfavorable development, which also comprised of 71 deceased recipients. However, there were no relations reported for the same. The Indian government is constantly inspecting the said cases.
Other countries started to use the Sputnik V vaccine from Russia and CoronaVac from China.
The Vaccines of India
COVAXIN
Bharat Biotech came together with the Indian Council of Medical Research, National Institute of Virology to bring about the vaccine. The Bio-Safety Level 3 is responsible for the vaccine’s creation. An interesting point put forward by the creators mentioned the unlikelihood of pathological effects. The immunogenicity in the vaccine is boosted by inhabiting vaccine adjuvants. Similar to the Pfizer-BioNTech, the dose of the vaccine is 2. This has to be carried out with 28 days difference between the first dose.
The mid of the year 2020 paved a clearance for human trials of the vaccine. The studies conducted through all the phases of the trials resulted in a more efficient outcome. Among the volunteers, citizens above 60 years old were observed. The doubts by the experts were put to rest by the manufacturers when they stated that it was safe. The manufacturers have stored over more than 10 million doses of the vaccine.
COVISHIELD
COVISHIELD comprises a weakened common cold virus that is derived from chimpanzees. It is not capable of causing any illness. The vaccine works when injected by making the immune system create antibodies to attack the external contamination. The vaccination dose is 2, and the second dose can be provided within 4 to 12 weeks. The vaccine can be stored in a regular refrigerator, which was an advantage in distribution. The results were fairly positive, with 90 percent effectiveness after the half and the full dose combined. The Vaccines COVISHIELD and COVAXIN have been distributed worldwide. The year 2021 has begun and the manufacturers have already made arrangements for further consignments. It delivers over to 190 countries and exceeding 2 billion in quantity.
The outcome of change through vaccination
By 2021 we were introduced to more vaccines that were approved by the WHO. Countries like, Australia and New Zealand were successful in suppressing the pandemic. After trials and errors, the vaccination resumed worldwide. After experiencing other effects and recipients going through all the phases, vaccinations were nonetheless fruitful. The entire continent is constantly on its feet and in the works. One can expect and put hope for a slow recovery.
You must know what is Covid-19 already. “Coronavirus”, being a big cause of a huge number of deaths in 2020, needs no further introduction but it still seems like a mystery. As even advanced treatment institutions, research centers or labs, and experts are unable to discover any treatment for this disease. And this is the reason that it has taken up the face of a pandemic. We are here with some facts about this with the motive of spreading more and more awareness regarding it. It includes its symptoms and the measures that one can take as prevention against the virus. As until now, there is no cure for it. Hence prevention is the only reliable tool.
Infections of the nose, sinuses or upper neck are typically the causes of Covid 19. SARS-CoV-2, is the virus responsible for COVID-19. It can manifest in either the upper (sinuses, nose, and throat) or the lower (windpipe, lungs) respiratory system.
Like other coronaviruses, it spreads mostly through interpersonal contact. There is a wide spectrum of infection severity.
Why is it called Covid 19?
So, what is Covid 19 and why is it called Covid 19? The International Committee on the Tsunami Victims (ICTV) and the World Health Organization (WHO) collaborated, however, to give the virus and sickness their current names:
The novel coronavirus was given the designation SARS-CoV-2 by the ICTV since it is thought to be associated with the severe acute respiratory syndrome.
The new disease was given the acronym COVID-19 by the WHO, which stands for “coronavirusinfluenzadiseasein2019.”
These two bodies, along with the many scientists and experts all across the world, are ultimately responsible for naming and categorizing all new viruses and diseases.
History of Covid 19
As per experts, SARS –CoV-2 originated in bats. SARS-CoV-2 jumped directly at the humans at one of the open-air Wuhan “wet markets”. That is where the people buy fresh fish and meat.
Some wet markets sell banned and wild species such as wild boars, cobras, and raccoon dogs. Crowded situations allow viruses from several animals to swap genes. Most of the time virus changes so much and can start to infect and then, transmit among people.
COVID infected people who have had direct interaction with animals. This means that the virus transmitted from one to another. The virus then spread in the U.S and across the globe. This worldwide growing transmission is what a pandemic is.
The fifth known pandemic since the 1918 flu pandemic was caused by the unique human coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19), originally discovered in Wuhan, China, in 2019.
Nearly two years after the initial discovery of COVID-19, there have been more than 200 million confirmed cases and more than 4.6 million fatalities as of September 2021. Here, we examine the development of COVID-19 in detail.
The World Health Organization (WHO) did alert about cases of pneumonia in Wuhan, China, on December 31, 2019, and this information led to the first confirmed case of COVID-19. The Chinese government identified a novel coronavirus, 2019-nCoV, as the culprit of these cases on January 7.
A few weeks later, on January 30, 2020, the WHO designated the fast-expanding COVID-19 epidemic a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. However, the novel coronavirus didn’t receive its official designation until the 11th of February of the following month—COVID-19. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed the death of the nation’s first COVID-19 victim nine days later. He lived in Washington state and was a man in his fifties.
Causes of Covid 19
Continuing with what is Covid 19, the scientific name of the virus that causes COVID is severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). It is a member of the coronavirus family of viruses. While coronaviruses can infect both humans and animals, they only cause respiratory diseases in humans.
The COVID-19 virus has a large number of genetic variants. The spread of the virus, the severity of infection, and the protection you get from past infections, immunizations, or therapies, different COVID variations can impact all this. In Canada, the variations Delta (B.1.617.2) and Omicron are of particular importance (B.1.1.529).
Direct transmission of COVID-19 between individuals is possible via respiratory droplets. Aerosols released when an infected person coughs or sneezes can also expose you to the virus. These aerosols stay in the atmosphere for a very long time. The virus can also transmit by contacting your eyes, nose, or mouth after touching infected surfaces.
Those who are most at risk of exposure are:
People who frequently come into contact with non-immunized individuals
Those who provide care for people who have or may have COVID-19 Those who work in places where they are exposed to lots of people
A person who works in a group environment, such as a prison, a long-term care facility, a shelter, or a group home
Those whose ability to adopt public health policies is restricted by social, economic, or personal obstacles
Prevention of COVID 19
Pneumonia, respiratory failure, cardiac issues, liver problems, septic shock, and death are all possible outcomes of this infection. Cytokine release syndrome or a “cytokine storm,” may be the root cause of many of the difficulties of COVID-19. This is what happens when your immune system responds to an infection by unleashing a barrage of inflammatory proteins called cytokines into your bloodstream. They can cause organ failure and tissue death. Transplants of healthy lungs have been necessary for some circumstances.
Seek immediate medical attention if you or a loved one exhibit any of the following life-threatening symptoms:
Breathing difficulties; experiencing shortness of breath
Chronic discomfort in the chest
Confusion
Struggle to fully awaken
Colour change in the face or lips to a deep blue
Tips to Prevent COVID Spread
Though COVID vaccines are now available and are also mandatory, precautions are still important to prevent the spread of COVID-19:
There are things which you can do for curing mild symptoms of coronavirus when you are staying at home (isolate yourself)
If you have a high temperature and get lost rest
Drink plenty of liquid to avoid dehydration it means, drinks enough so that your pee is light yellow and very clear without causing abdominal pain
In case of feeling uncomfortable take Paracetamol or ibuprofen
If you have a cough avoid lying on your back and lie on your side or sit upright in its place
Try to take a teaspoon of honey but don’t give honey to babies under 12 months
In case of feeling difficulty breathing, keep your room cool by heating down or opening a window, and don’t use a fan as it might transmit the virus
Sit upright in a chair and just relax your shoulders
Try to breathe slowly in through your nose and out through your mouth just like gently blowing a candle
Symptoms of Covid 19
Symptoms are the most important thing to know if you are wondering what is Covid 19.People with COVID-19 have had a vast range of symptoms that can range from mild symptoms (sneezing and cough) to severe illness. In this case, symptoms could even appear 2-14 days after exposure to the COVID virus. Let’s have a look at the symptoms which might have COVID-19.
Cough and Fever or Chills
Shortness of breath or feeling breathless
Muscle or body aches and fatigue
Continuous
New loss of taste or smell (Imp)
Sore throat and Diarrhea
Congestion or runny nose
Vomiting or Nausea
It doesn’t include all possible symptoms
Time to seek emergency medical attention
Just check for emergency weaning symptoms for COVID-19 and if someone is facing any of these symptoms then, seek emergency medical care immediately
Persistent pain or check pressure
Trouble while breathing
New confusion
Bluish lips or face
Inability to wake or to stay awake
Well, this list isn’t all the possible signs. But whenever you feel any of these then, call the nearest medical provider for any other signs that are severe or concerning to you.
Many people aren’t sure when they are suffering from a cough or cold. They become confuse between Flu and COVID-19. In both cases, the signs are almost the same but yes, there are some differences by which you can get to know if is it common flu or COVID-19.
Flu (Influenza) and COVID-19 are both transmissible respiratory illnesses but they also occur by viruses.
There are some main differences between COVID-19 and flu. Covid-19 looks like it spread more easily than the flu and can cause more severe illnesses in some people. It also can take longer before people show symptoms and people can be infectious for longer.
Because the symptoms of COVID-19 and flu are almost the same and therefore it has become hard to differentiate them based on the symptoms only. Hence, it is necessary to get for COVID test to confirm a diagnosis. Flu and COVID-19 transmit several characteristics but there are some more main differences between both of them.
How severe is your COVID-19?
People with strong immune system may have COVID but without symptoms.
The government wishes to discover an antibody test so that we can come to know how many people have had coronavirus unknowingly, which means without any symptoms. Early research on a bit recommends that it could be 40-50% of cases. It might be more than 80% still don’t know.
If you are Asymptomatic then, it means that you don’t have any symptoms. Well, many reports mean loss of taste and smell sense in asymptomatic people, and technically even that is a sign. A test can only decide the severity of the infection as even asymptomatic cases can also potentially spread the virus.
Mild COVID-19
The virus possibly affects your upper respiratory tract, previously the large airways. The key symptoms are temperature with cough or without cough. Patients who are suffering from mild illness have flu-like signs. They might include mild fever or mild cough, but the fever might not reach 37.8°C and there might sometimes be less or even no cough. Patients might notice a feeling of being a bit more breathless than normal during the exercise.
Mild COVID-19 has:
High fever includes one that doesn’t reach the 37.8°C mark
You might also lose the smell and taste sense
You might have tiredness, headache, or muscles aches
You aren’t highly likely to have a sore throat or runny nose but they don’t happen in some cases
You don’t have marked breathlessness
You might feel weepy or sad
Your self-care, eating, cooking, and drinking aren’t affected
The symptoms typically seem to last about 7 to 10 days
Now, it is almost the end of the year and still, there are no treatments and cures for this disease. You have to take proper precautions, such as washing your hand constantly, proper sanitization, wearing the mask, and maintaining social distancing. Stay safe and stay healthy.
Competition to create the most efficient vaccination
Strict measures were enacted globally to combat the pandemic. In March, recommendations on how to properly wash one’s hands and restrictions on one’s ability to interact socially were implemented. Although we all knew that these efforts would help limit the spread of the virus whereas, scientists knew that a vaccine is necessary to defeat the pandemic. Human vaccine trials against COVID-19 using the Moderna mRNA vaccine will commence on March 17, 2020. It won’t be wrong to say that the treatment of covid 19 as of now is vaccination.
Limitations imposed at the outset were insufficient to halt the spread of COVID-19. Rapidly, restrictions tightened in most areas, with the United Kingdom imposing a stay-at-home rule on March 26. At the same time, many European countries imposed their national lockdowns. By April 2nd, the number of reported cases of COVID-19 around the world had risen to a staggering one million.
To combat the epidemic, stringent precautions are necessary in every region of the planet. March was the month that saw the beginning of preventative measures like social isolation, travel limitations, and other instructions. However, preventative efforts would only serve to delay the spread of the virus. The scientific community knew that to stop the pandemic, a vaccine is required. The first COVID-19 human vaccine trials using the Moderna mRNA vaccine will commence on March 17, 2020. United States is where the trials are completed.
It was abundantly obvious that the first limits imposed were insufficient to halt the progression of COVID-19. In a short amount of time, limitations became more stringent in the majority of regions. Where, United Kingdom enacting a stay-at-home regulation on the 26th of March. Around this period, a number of European countries put in place their versions of a national lockdown. As of the 2nd of April, the total number of COVID-19 cases across the globe had reached one million.
This statistic put light on the true gravity of the pandemic. And as a result, governments put all in their power to halt the progression of the disease until a vaccine developed that was deemed safe for humans. As further research came to show the significance of aerosols in the spread of the disease, the World Health Organization (WHO) announced guidelines on the 6th of April regarding the wearing of masks.
