Will there be a COVID winter wave? Here's what expert say

As the world has given up on COVID restrictions, we should be mindful that COVID-19 is an unending pandemic. While the number of new cases may be low, it still persists. We have resumed our normal life with the help of vaccination drives and following COVID-19 protocols. However, as one variant after another comes into being and changing weather takes its course, let’s dig a little deeper to understand the impact it can cause.

While there’s a possibility of attaining herd immunity, scientists have confirmed that your previous infections are not a shield against the new variant. Thus, it’s important to take booster shots amidst a new variant outbreak. With cases of flu on the rise, COVID cases may also plunge due to compromised immunity.

With the winter coming in a few days, there is always a possibility of an increase in COVID-19 infections. However, with the good amount of immunity that the majority population possesses due to natural and vaccine-related immunity(termed hybrid immunity), it appears there will not be a disastrous wave as seen in the past.

Dr Sanjith Saseedharan, Consultant & Head Critical Care, SL Raheja Hospital, Mahim-A Fortis Associate, says “We may see an increase in the incidence of people having symptoms like a common cold because there is a chance that COVID-19 and the flu virus might be circulating together during the winter months. This is also because flu-related immunity will be low as the last two to three years have seen people taking many precautions.

“We can be reasonably sure, considering the current infection rate, that we will have low infections of COVID-19 this winter as compared to the last two years. Also, we can be assured that the new variants will not drive up hospitalizations or deaths. The same infection can be a problem for a vulnerable population like the elderly with comorbidities, so they must take precautions as and when required,” says Dr Saseedharan.

To prevent the spread of COVID-19:

• Wear a mask in public places.
• Everyone must maintain a safe distance from others (at least 1 metre), even if they are not sick.
• Keep your hands clean by washing them with soap and water.
• Sit in open and well-ventilated spaces over closed ones.
• Use an alcohol based sanitizer when physical distancing is not possible.
• Get vaccinated if not done yet. Take a booster shot if you’ve had a recent brush with Coronavirus.
• Stay home if you see COVID symptoms.

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