Threat of fourth Covid wave looms as BA.2 variant is found in Bengaluru

With the detection of two cases of Omicron sub-variant BA.2 in Bengaluru, experts have warned of a fourth wave of Covid in the state. The BA-2 variant is more transmissible than the original strain and was earlier found in New Delhi and Mumbai.

A cause of worry

In view of this, the Karnataka Health Department has taken a decision to increase the number of tests in the state, especially in Bengaluru. A major cause of worry is that a higher number of Covid cases are being reported from Mahadevapura and East Zones in Bengaluru where most major IT companies are located with lakhs of software professionals at work, reports The Deccan Herald.

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The newspaper quoted CN Manjunath, director of Sri Jayadeva Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences and Research, Bengaluru, as saying that Covid variants BA.2.10 and BA.2.12 have been found in the state. He feels there is a possibility of a fourth Covid wave beginning in Karnataka in three to four weeks, and the BA.2 variant might be responsible for the surge.

Caution is the key

However, the number of people getting admitted to hospitals will be lesser than before though the infection will spread rapidly, Manjunath stated. “There are no restrictions in place in the state now and all activities have resumed just like in the pre-Covid period. This is going to result in a spike in Covid cases in another two weeks. People need to be cautious,” The Deccan Herald quoted Manjunath. As in earlier Covid waves, those with comorbidities need to be cautious.

Manjunath said wearing of masks should be made mandatory again, the newspaper reported. He also advised people not to neglect symptoms of fever, cough and cold and get tested at the earliest.

The fourth wave warning had also been given earlier by Karnataka Health Minister K Sudhakar. He had cited studies which said that the fourth wave of Covid-19 may start in June-July and last till September.

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