‘No need to panic’, say govt, experts after Omicron cases in Karnataka

Dr CN Manjunath, a member of the technical advisory committee (TAC), said it was a natural process that the virus mutates, and “we are learning about it”

Karnataka health minister Dr K Sudhakar on Friday said the detection of the Omicron variant of the coronavirus is not a reason for panic.

Dr CN Manjunath, a member of the technical advisory committee, says it was a natural process that a virus mutates and “we are learning about it”. (PTI)

All in the active cases of the new variant reported in the state, all patients are either asymptomatic or showing mild symptoms, said the minister on Thursday.

Talking to the media in Bengaluru, the minister said in Delta variants there were several complications such as breathing problems, however, no such problems have been reported in the case of the new variant.

“The symptoms are very mild, but we request people to take all precautions as earlier, especially wearing masks. From our end, we will increase testing in the coming days and take all measures needed. We are on top of the situation, there is no need for panic,” he said.

Dr CN Manjunath, a member of the technical advisory committee (TAC), said it was a natural process that the virus mutates, and “we are learning about it”.

“From what we have understood so far, especially from those working closely with the variant in South Africa, is that the virus is not dangerous. In more than 95% of the cases, no hospitalisation was required. So, I don’t think there is any need for panic,” he said.

The doctor said the Omicron has created a panic among people and it was important that the government and other agencies should provide sufficient information to the people to ensure that the panic is addressed.

“As of now, this is just a name change. From Delta, we are seeing Omicron. As long as we follow the Covid-19 protocols, it will not create another wave,” he added.

Talking about the further steps taken by the government, KV Trilok Chandra, special commissioner (health), BBMP, said steps will be taken to increase testing and vaccination in the city.

“A meeting has been called by the chief minister, following which more measures to be taken to control the variant would be announced,” he said.