New year, new variant this is how we start our 2022. Due to the highly mutated Omicron variant, coronavirus infection will probably continue rising and will cause another “serious surge”.

As the country faces another variant of concern, it is important to know what Omicron is, how it starts and what are the symptoms of this new COVID-19 variant?

The multiple variations of Omicron may lead to more aggressive resistance to current vaccines. Triple mutations in the strain suggest stronger immune capacity.

Since the first detection of this strain on November 09, 2021, it has spread to 106 countries and regions as of December 21, 2021.

On December 12, 2021, The WHO said that the Omicron strain is more contagious compared to the Delta strain, as suggested by early data obtained from relevant studies, and that it could undermine the potency of vaccines but cause less severe symptoms.

On December 15, 2021, A report issued by the WHO revealed that the Omicron strain has the potential to reduce the effectiveness of vaccines and puts exposed individuals at a higher risk of contracting this strain.

On December 31, 2021, The Department of Health detected 10 more Omicron cases – three of which are local cases. According to the DOH, there is already a “high possibility” of local transmission of the COVID-19 Omicron variant in the Philippines. Following the detection of the three local Omicron cases, Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles announced last Friday, December 31, 2021, that Metro Manila will be placed under Alert 3 from January 3 to 15, 2022 – cutting short Alert Level 2 in the region.

Fr. Austriaco, a Filipino priest/microbiologist, says that a rapid increase in cases is to be expected. However, he is optimistic that Omicron might actually be a blessing and may signal the end of the pandemic. “We have to realize that Omicron is the beginning of the end of the pandemic because Omicron is going to provide the kind of population immunity that should stabilize our societies and should allow us to reopen,” he said speaking during a GoNegosyo Townhall. He followed saying the surge caused by Omicron will be mild cases with lesser hospitalizations and fatalities. “It’s milder, but if you’re unvaccinated, it’s still harder for you,” he added.

Getting infected by Omicron comes with its own symptoms and to achieve immunity from this strain once infected, recovery is still the goal

To date, the known symptoms of Omicron are as follows:

● Sore Muscles

● Fever

● Dry Cough/Sore Throat

● Extreme Tiredness

The DOH reported 17,220 additional infections bringing total active cases to 56,561. They have reported 43 known cases of the variant.

Reminders on health protocols

There are many treatments that were not given much stress throughout the pandemic. Physiological, emotional, and psychological rehabilitation treatments also play a big part in battling this virus. In China, there are three Traditional Chinese Medicines (TCM) to treat COVID-19 and we are very lucky to have one of these three TCMs registered and widely distributed in the Philippines – Lianhua Qingwen Capsule.

Following the preventive measures of social distancing, wearing of face mask, frequent hand washing, use of sanitizer alcohol, and keeping healthy by exercising, getting sunshine, eating healthy, and getting enough sleep. Early treatment is important. Do not wait until symptoms become worse before taking Lianhua Qingwen. Take it at the onset of symptoms to recover quickly. Remember the importance of the Philippine government’s PDITR +V strategy, which is Prevent, Detect, Isolate, Treat, Reintegrate, and Vaccinate, which is sure to cut off transmission chains. Of course, with the cooperation of all the Filipinos, we can do our share to help control and manage the surge of COVID-19.

Despite its safety, Lianhua Qingwen is currently classified as a prescription drug (Rx)—requiring a doctor’s prescription. Prescription-holding consumers may purchase it in all Mercury Drug Stores, Southstar Drug, Watsons, Rose Pharmacy, and TGP nationwide and other pharmacies at a suggested retail price of P288.00/box (24 capsules/box).