Two new COVID-19 variants have emerged in India recently: NB.1.8.1 and LF.7. If you are wondering about what these are and whether you should be? Here’s a simple explanation.
What Are These Covid-19 Variants?
Viruses such as COVID-19 change over a period of time, and these changes are termed mutations. More human beings getting infected means more chances for mutation for the virus. Occasionally, new versions of a virus would arise; these are called variants. NB.1.8.1 and LF.7 are now just two of the many variants of the COVID-19 found in India.
Are They Dangerous?
At the moment, there is no strong evidence that any of these variants are more dangerous than older ones. They are still being studied by doctors and scientists. What we do know:
They may spread a little faster
They are hence being closely monitored by health officials
Vaccination continues to protect against severe illness
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What Should You Do For Coronavirus?
The new variants, notwithstanding, these basic precautionary steps remain:
Getting vaccinated (and boosters, if available)
Putting on a mask in crowded places
Washing hands regularly
Staying home if sick
Can Natural Immunity Protect You Better Than Vaccines in Coronavirus ?
If I had COVID-19 before, do I still need the vaccine? Or, Is it possible that the protection gained from natural immunity is better than the one obtained by the vaccine?
Let’s get into it.
What Is the Natural Immunity?
Natural immunity occurs when your body battles a genuine infection — in this case, COVID-19 — and is able to remember how to defend itself should it come into contact with this infection again.
Sure, natural immunity can provide some protection for a period of time. But it may not be sufficient.
What Is Vaccine Immunity?
Vaccines train the body to fight off the virus without inducing the disease first. They prepare the immune system before the virus arrives.
Also, vaccines have undergone several tests and provide consistent protection to more people.
Here’s what we’ve learned so far:
| Topic | Natural Immunity | Vaccine Immunity |
|---|---|---|
| Protection Level | Good (but varies by person and variant) | Strong and consistent |
| Lasts How Long? | A few months to a year (less with new variants) | Several months (boosters help keep it strong) |
| Safer Way? | Comes after getting sick | Comes without getting sick |
| For New Variants? | May not work well | Updated vaccines protect better |
What Should You Do If You Missed Your COVID Booster?
Missing your COVID-19 booster shot? No problem! Yet there is some good news: it is never too late.
Why Boosters Are Important?
COVID-19 vaccines prepare your body to fight against the virus, but this protection lessens over time.
Think of a booster shot as a memory aid that keeps your immune system alert and ready, especially when facing new variants.
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What Action Should You Take?
When you missed out on your booster:
Keep calm. You can still get it!
Consult about the latest regulations in your area (waiting period, which booster to take).
Set an appointment at a hospital, clinic, or pharmacy.
You don’t need to start the primary series again. Just get the booster as soon as you can.
What If You Were Recently Infected with COVID?
If you catch COVID-19, ideally wait three months after you become well before taking the booster.
That time allows rest and better response of body to the shot.
Final Tip
Missed one? That’s fine, take it when you can; it will keep you and your family safe.
Need to find places to get your booster? Just ask!
