Just when we thought we had overcome the devastating second wave of COVID-19 and children were returning to schools and colleges the discovery of a new coronavirus variant with more mutations than ever before is concerning. Omicron is quickly becoming the dominant coronavirus variant in South Africa and other European countries. 

The discovery of a new coronavirus variant with more mutations than ever before is concerning. 

Germany reported 49,206 cases on November 21. More than 1200 people died in Russia as a result of the Virus in November. More than 30 countries, including Austria, Canada, and France, have given their populations booster shots to prevent outbreaks. According to government data, 56 percent of total cases in October in India were of breakthrough infection. According to the report, the Omicron variant has the potential to worsen the situation. The issue of booster dose has not yet been taken seriously by the Government of India.

As the new Covid strain 'Omicron' causes concern around the world, scientists at Oxford are continuing their research and, based on their findings, they may release a new vaccine that acts as a booster in 6 months. This is the time to encourage people to get fully vaccinated and to give a booster dose to the vulnerable population to prevent outbreaks of infection and further loss of life.

Please join me in requesting that the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare prioritise the distribution of COVID-19 booster doses to senior citizens and vulnerable populations.