Breakthrough COVID-19 cases have, unfortunately, become much more common during the recent outbreak of the omicron variant. The reason for this is because the omicron variant is much more transmissible than previous variants, due to its different mutations.

This, in turn, makes it more able to escape the passive immunity that is provided from vaccinations.

To learn more about breakthrough COVID-19 cases, read on as our AFC Urgent Care Athens, TN provides some helpful info below!

What Exactly Are Breakthrough Infections?

According to the CDC, a “breakthrough” case is when a person tests positive for COVID-19 at least two weeks after becoming fully vaccinated, which also includes receiving a booster shot when eligible.

The CDC also has gone on to state that breakthrough infections should be expected, since no vaccine is 100% effective at preventing viral infection. However, the main goal with vaccinations is to prevent serious illness and hospitalizations, which the COVID-19 vaccines have been successful in doing.

Most Common Omicron Symptoms

• Cough
• Fatigue or tiredness
• Congestion and runny nose
• Sore throat
• Headache

How Can I Protect Against Omicron?

While breakthrough infections have happened, vaccines and booster shots still prove to be the best defenses against this extremely contagious variant. In fact, in recent studies done by the CDC, booster shots have shown to be 90% effective at preventing hospitalizations due to omicron.

In addition to getting vaccinated and boosted, other health precautions can provide further protection from omicron infection. We’ve listed them below!

Ways to Prevent Omicron Infection

• Wear a well-fitting N95 or KN95 mask. These offer the highest level of protection, according to the CDC.
• Wash your hands with soap and water thoroughly and often. Make sure to wash for at least 20 seconds each time to properly get rid of lingering bacterial and viral particles.
• Be smart with where you go and the events you attend. Even though physical distancing is still recommended by the CDC, not many adhere to it anymore. If you are immunocompromised, live with someone who is at high risk of becoming seriously ill or you have young children at home, you may want to be more cautious and keep your distance in public.

Are you feeling under the weather? If so, we can help you feel better! Don’t hesitate to visit our AFC center today to get the care you need.