Dubbed as the most infectious variant yet, Omicron BA.5 has been driving up cases during the summer. While the current number of Covid-positive patients is declining, autumn could bring another wave. Fortunately, being able to identify the key symptoms could help.
Express.co.uk spoke to an immunologist Professor Denis Kinane about what the future holds for the very transmissible Omicron sub-variant.
The expert shared that without universal free testing, many might not even know they are infected this autumn.
Professor Kinane, Founding Scientist at Cignpost Diagnostics, said: “You are likely to see infections spread rapidly as people will not be aware that they are infected.”
Another problem is the variant’s ability to re-infect people. Kinane continued: “Recent reports have stated that the BA.5 Omicron variant is capable of re-infecting patients within weeks of a previous infection with the virus.
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“This ability for immune escape makes this strain the most transmissible yet, so we can expect a surge in infections and re-infections.”
This autumn will also be the first without legally enforced self-isolation, despite research suggesting that two thirds of people remain infectious after the first five days of the disease.
“Without an enforced self-isolation period and rational guidance, those infected will continue to spread the virus,” the expert added.
The good news is that Omicron BA.5 doesn’t seem to be more severe and deadly than its predecessors.
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“That is why we need to take reasonable precautions – such as using face masks in enclosed spaces and mass events and getting tested and isolating if you think you may be infected.
“It is worth remembering that vaccination does not prevent you from getting COVID and spreading it, but it does protect most people from hospitalisation.”
Furthermore, the immunologist also shared that the autumn booster vaccination programme could help in preventing “severe infections”.
Kinane concluded: “The UK’s population is also in a stronger position immunologically to counter COVID-19 infections.
“However, with immunity waning over time, it is vital that if a further vaccination dose is offered, uptake should be swift and across the board for maximum protection.”