COVID-19 in China recently skyrocketed after the government eased restrictions or lifted the “zero COVID” lockdown policy. The increase in cases was triggered by the Omicron BF.7 subvariant.
Presumably, many Chinese citizens still do not have strong post-vaccination natural antibodies, as found in other countries. Therefore, China has been asked to actively step up its effective COVID-19 vaccination against the new Omicron subvariant.
Additionally, the rapid rollout of the new Omicron variant in China has impacted a range of services, from catering to delivery to crematoriums. Funeral homes in the city of 22 million people are also struggling to meet residents’ cremation demands, as many employees and hearse drivers fall ill.
Omicron BF.7 More dangerous
Quoted by The People, the Omicron BF.7 subvariant is said to be more dangerous, even one patient can transmit the virus to 10-18 people. Omicron BF.7 is short for BA.5.2.1.7, a sublineage of the Omicron BA.5 variant.
According to reports from China, BF.7 has the strongest infectivity of the omicron subvariant in the country, is more transmissible than other variants, has a shorter incubation period, and with a higher ability to infect people who have had a previous infection with COVID, have been vaccinated, or even both.
Symptoms of Omicron BF.7
Symptoms of Omicron BF.7 are similar to other Omicron subvariants, which attack the upper respiratory tract. Patients may experience symptoms such as:
- Temperature
- Cough
- Burning throat
- Have a cold
- Fatigue
- Some people also experience gastrointestinal symptoms, such as vomiting and diarrhea.
Omicron BF.7 might cause more serious illness in people with weakened immune systems.
Omicron BF.7 already available?
Besides China, Omicron BF.7 has been detected in many other countries, such as India, the United States, the United Kingdom, Belgium, Germany, France and Denmark.
The UK Health Safety Agency has identified BF.7 as one of the variants of greatest concern.
(suc/kna)
