The Omicron Wave is Receding: What’s Next

The Omicron Wave is Receding: What’s Next

The winter 2021 COVID-19 omicron wave caused the most cases on record since the beginning of the pandemic. While that particular spike in cases has fortunately receded, we must become comfortable determining our own risk tolerance with any future spikes in cases. Below are predictions and recommendations on what’s to come and how to protect your health.

• New variants: The coronavirus is constantly undergoing mutations, and the new omicron variant BA.2 has created some buzz in the medical community. It appears that this variant is more contagious and can lead to infection, regardless of a patient’s history of COVID-19 cases.
• Assessing personal risk is the most effective way to navigate COVID moving forward.
• Keep tabs on local COVID numbers. When case numbers rise, it may be time to wear a mask indoors or avoid crowded public places.
• Vaccines: The FDA gave the Pfizer vaccine emergency authorization to use in children ages 5-15 years old and full approval to use in people ages 16 years and older. As vaccine rollout continues, younger children may soon become eligible for receiving their shot. Monitor closely for updates on vaccine news and ensure all those eligible receive the booster shot. In the meantime, unvaccinated children ages 2 years and older should wear a mask in public spaces and around people they don’t live with, particularly in areas of high transmission.
• Long COVID-19: For some people recovering from a case of COVID-19, the aftermath can linger for months post-infection. This opens the door to a wider range of additional symptoms such as skin irritation, cardiovascular complications and changes in menstruation. Thankfully, taking the standard precautions against COVID-19 infection such as vaccination, wearing a mask and maintaining 6 feet of social distance will also protect against long COVID-19. If you think you are experiencing long COVID or have other concerning symptoms, we always recommend checking in with a medical professional to discuss your health. The highly-skilled providers at PhysicianOne Urgent Care can help evaluate your symptoms, develop a treatment plan and work with our referral team to ensure you have priority access to the specialists you need.
• Testing: Between rapid antigen and PCR, patients with a potential COVID-19 infection have options when it comes to testing. If you plan to take a rapid test to see if you are positive for COVID-19, take both tests in the kit. This will ensure more accurate results. If both come back negative but you still suspect you may be infectious, get a PCR test at one of our centers. For patients with or without COVID-19 symptoms just walk in or reserve your spot online.

Telehealth is available 24/7! Start Your Virtual Visit Here!

Illness doesn’t follow traditional work hours, which is why PhysicianOne Urgent Care is New England’s first and only urgent care to offer 24/7 telehealth. Talk to a medical professional any time of day or night and visit any of our centers for care in the morning. From restless nights from aches and pains to persistent coughs and fevers, we’ve got you. When in doubt, get it checked out on your own schedule.