Illness virus

However, breakthrough infections in people who are fully vaccinated are likely to occur. With other variants, like Delta, vaccines have remained effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalizations, and death. The recent emergence of Omicron further emphasizes the importance of vaccination and boosters.

Based on the changed genetic make-up of Omicron, some treatments are likely to remain effective while others may be less effective. Vaccines remain the best public health measure to protect people from COVID, slow transmission, and reduce the likelihood of new variants emerging. Until we know more about the risk of Omicron, it is important to use all tools available to protect yourself and others. CDC scientists are working with partners to gather data and virus samples that can be studied to answer important questions about the Omicron variant.

Scientific experiments have already started. CDC will provide updates as soon as possible. If a variant is circulating at 0. Skip directly to site content Skip directly to page options Skip directly to A-Z link. Section Navigation. Viruses are very tiny germs. They are made of genetic material inside of a protein coating. Viruses cause familiar infectious diseases such as the common cold , flu and warts.

Viruses are like hijackers. They invade living, normal cells and use those cells to multiply and produce other viruses like themselves. This can kill, damage, or change the cells and make you sick.

Different viruses attack certain cells in your body such as your liver, respiratory system, or blood. When you get a virus, you may not always get sick from it. Your immune system may be able to fight it off. For most viral infections, treatments can only help with symptoms while you wait for your immune system to fight off the virus.

Click here to join our channel indianexpress and stay updated with the latest headlines. Must Read. Home Explained Explained: Why you should still try to avoid catching Omicron Explained: Why you should still try to avoid catching Omicron The extraordinary spread of Omicron in many countries means that in absolute numbers, more people will experience severe disease. Here is why experts say it is not time to be complacent about Omicron.

By: Reuters January 13, am. Here is why experts say it is not time to be complacent about Omicron: You could still become very ill Research has indicated that Omicron may be more likely to lead to an asymptomatic case of COVID than prior variants.

Also read Which masks are most effective against Omicron? Best of Explained. Click here for more.