The Current Status of the Covid 19 Virus
Even as COVID becomes a thing of the past, it hasn’t disappeared completely from our society and anyone can still get sick with potentially difficult symptoms.
The Covid-19 virus is still circulating globally, but the situation has changed since the initial outbreak. Many countries, including Malaysia, are reporting milder cases due to widespread vaccination and increased immunity from prior infections. New variants tend to be more transmissible but less likely to cause severe illness.
The Most Recent Covid Variant
Omicron and its sub variants currently make up most of the cases reported by the Ministry of Health. In May 2024, a wave in Singapore saw a rise in infections, currently being monitored by both governments in case of a potential surge.
Public health authorities continue monitoring new variants and adjusting recommendations as needed. High-risk individuals such as the elderly or the immunocompromised are encouraged to take an additional jab of the COVID-19 vaccine if their last dose was more than 12 months ago.
The symptoms of Omicron infection are similar to previous Covid-19 variants and sub variants. Here’s what you need to watch out for:
- Fever
- Dry cough
- Fatigue
- Sore throat
- Headache
- Muscle pain
- Diarrhoea
- Skin rash
- Loss of taste and smell
Swab Testing Instead of Self-Testing
Swab tests, typically administered by a healthcare professional, generally offer some advantages over self-tests for COVID-19.
Swab tests: Considered the “gold standard” due to higher accuracy, particularly PCR tests. PCR tests directly detect the virus’s genetic material, leading to fewer false negatives.
Self-tests: Often antigen tests, which are less sensitive than PCR tests. They may miss low viral loads, resulting in more false negatives, especially early in infection or for people without symptoms. In some cases, following the manufacturer’s instructions for repeat testing may be recommended to improve accuracy.
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FAQs
There are two main types of swab tests used for COVID-19:
- PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) Test: Considered the gold standard for accuracy. It detects the virus’s genetic material and is highly sensitive.
- Rapid Antigen Test: Provides faster results (usually within 15-30 minutes) but is less sensitive than PCR tests. It detects the presence of viral proteins.
- If you experience COVID-19 symptoms like fever, cough, shortness of breath, or loss of taste/smell.
- If you were exposed to someone who tested positive for COVID-19.
- Before or after travel, depending on local guidelines.
- Before certain medical procedures, as required by a healthcare facility.
A healthcare professional will insert a thin swab into your nostril (nasal swab) or the back of your nasal cavity (nasopharyngeal swab) to collect a sample. It can feel uncomfortable but is usually over quickly.
PCR tests typically take a few hours to a day, but it can vary depending on the testing facility. Rapid antigen tests provide results within 15-30 minutes.
Swab tests are generally safe, but you might experience some discomfort during the swab insertion.
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