The new subvariant is nothing to be worried about so long as you take precautions Photo Pexels
South Africa – Although Covid-19 might be a distant but haunting memory from the past for us, the emergence of new subvariants has kept health experts on alert. With the recent confirmation of a new Covid-19 subvariant EG.5, in Gauteng, questions arise about the potential impact and the need for concern.
The world has witnessed a series of subvariants emerging from the original Covid-19 strain. These subvariants, which stem from the lineage of the well-known Omicron variant, have led to concerns about increased illness, hospitalisation, and mortality rates. However, Dr. Shameem Jaumdally , Senior Research Scientist, Centre for Lung Infection and Immunity, UCT Lung Institute, asserts that the situation might not be as dire as it seems.
“The short answer to whether we should be worried about an increase in illness, hospitalisation and death is no. The reason behind this is because this subvariant comes from the lineage of Omicron which we have been accustomed to since the end of 2021. As everybody knows with the circulation and emergence of that variant, Omicron and all the subsequent subvariants descending from it, we have not experienced any form of increase in hospitalisation and death.”
Vulnerable populations and continued protection
While the overall risk might be relatively low, certain populations remain vulnerable to severe Covid-19 infection. Elderly individuals and those with underlying medical conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases, are more prone to experiencing severe outcomes. Even with the reassuring data about the EG.5 subvariant, Jaumdally emphasised the importance of continued vigilance and protection measures.
“In many hospitals, especially the bigger hospitals, there are clinics within the diagnostic unit for respiratory diseases where we have what we call long Covid clinics where we still see people who are coming through with respiratory [sicknesses] and problems that developed during the acute phase of the infection with the virus. There are other types of problems like cardiac issues, renal issues that people are still experiencing in the long-term following an infection that may have happened a year or two ago. These are mostly people who are either in their elderly age or people who have underlying issues.”
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South Africa’s surveillance systems against Covid
South Africa has been at the forefront of monitoring and tracking Covid-19 variants. The country’s robust surveillance system enabled the early identification of variants like Beta and Omicron. This proactive approach is reflective of the global need to maintain comprehensive surveillance to combat future pandemics. The lesson learned from Covid-19 is that tracking systems must extend beyond the current virus and prepare for potential future threats.
“We are continuously sequencing the different variants and subvariants that have been in circulation, and this is actually being done at national level. Most countries who have the capacity to actually do this type of what we sentinel surveillance program have continuously trapped and monitored the different form of evolution that’s happening with the virus that first emerged at the early stages of 2020. What we’ve learned is that we now need to have a better tracking system for not only Covid-19 but also any future viruses or bacteria that could come into circulation. This is the third coronavirus that has caused some form of disturbance around the world.”
The role of vaccination and immunity
Vaccination has played a crucial role in mitigating the impact of COVID-19. However, it’s important to clarify that vaccines primarily protect against severe disease and death, rather than preventing infection altogether. With natural immunity acquired by a significant portion of the population through prior infection, the situation has evolved. While vaccines have proven effective, the focus now shifts towards targeted tactics to safeguard vulnerable individuals.
“We also need to be real with the situation. Most people around the world have been at least infected once. I think it is safe to say that everybody has some form of natural immunity against that virus and against future infection. It is important to highlight the need for possibly a boost with a vaccine right now for people who are still vulnerable to these severe diseases. These are people who are older, who have underlying medical conditions.”
As we transition from winter months, known as the flu season in South Africa, a host of respiratory symptoms become more prevalent. Coughing, fever, shortness of breath, and fatigue are typical symptoms shared between the flu and Covid-19. Given this overlap, individuals must exercise caution and take necessary precautions, especially those who fall into high-risk categories, stressed Jaumdally.
While the emergence of new subvariants may spark concern, the situation is not one of immediate alarm. The focus should shift towards personal responsibility, particularly among vulnerable individuals. The elderly and those with underlying conditions must remain vigilant, taking necessary measures to protect themselves and others. As we navigate the evolving landscape of Covid-19, lessons learned and surveillance systems in place should guide our responses to current and future challenges.
