Home Health: New Covid Variant ‘Eris’: Should Indians Be Concerned About Fast Spreading Virus? Doctors Speak
The spread of a new Covid-19 sub-variant called ‘Eris’ in the UK is causing growing concern. There are fears that this variant could lead to a surge in cases. So far, Eris has not spread to India, and no cases have been reported in the country. However, there are concerns that it may enter India due to reports of its fast spread in the UK. India.com consulted with doctors to get their expert opinions on the potential impact of the Eris variant in India.
Dr. Aniket Mule, a consultant internal medicine at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, stated that this variant may not pose a serious problem as many people in India have already achieved herd immunity, especially against the weaker XBB sub-lineage. He emphasized the importance of taking precautions to prevent Covid infection, despite the flattening of the Covid curve in the country. He advised following Covid protocols, such as wearing masks, practicing social distancing, and hand sanitizing. He also recommended avoiding crowded places and close contact with sick individuals, as well as maintaining proper hand hygiene and frequently disinfecting commonly touched surfaces. A well-balanced diet, vaccination, and isolation of symptomatic individuals were also suggested as preventive measures.
Dr. Charu Dutt Arora, an Infectious Disease Specialist and Consultant Physician at AmeriHealth, Asian Hospital, stated that there has been a rise in Covid-19 cases in the UK and the USA, with a significant number attributed to the ‘Eris’ variant. However, he reassured that there is no need to panic in the Indian subcontinent. With the previous waves of Covid-19 and ongoing vaccination efforts, there is enough immunity to control the spread of the virus. Even if cases rise due to the Eris variant, it is unlikely to be severe. Dr. Arora emphasized the importance of following Covid-appropriate behavior, maintaining hand hygiene, and getting booster doses if necessary.
In conclusion, while the Eris variant has not yet reached India, it is advisable for individuals to continue following appropriate measures to prevent the spread of Covid-19.