In recent weeks, people have experienced slight fever, sore throat, sometimes inflicting pain, tenderness in the joints, cough, hoarse voice and slight malaise drifting all over the body. These symptoms worsen to some extent for a maximum of 2-day intervals, and then they shrivel down. Our friends and relatives are becoming sick due to this cold flu. Almost all people consider this case as a normal cold or seasonal flu. A question arises: Are these cases seriously coming from seasonal flu, or is Covid-19 coming back? Doctors are getting seemingly concerned and are conducting tests on these people. Based on their investigation, they are getting highly suspicious of the possibility of the return of the mighty coronavirus. Yes, whenever we try to recall the disastrous wave of Covid-19 of 2020, we get shivers running down our spine.

Coronavirus haunted the lives of countless families. Some children lost their parents, and some bid farewell to their offspring. The virus did not even spare young individuals in their early twenties. However, old and disabled people suffered the most from its wrath due to their diminishing immune status. The same terror is anticipated to come back in the upcoming days. According to recent data, several people have tested positive for new variant of Covid-19 (NB.1.8.1 — unofficially nicknamed “Nimbus”) across the country, and several doctors have tested positive at Rajshahi Medical College. The number is increasing day by day. Apart from these medical records, many people suffer from the common cold, which has become a crucial matter of concern as an increasing population gets infected. Doctors suspect that these people may have tested positive had they undergone the test. Thus, we need to remain careful of the recent surge.

In 2020, the most fatal complication of Covid-19, which choked people to death, was declining oxygen saturation due to lung function impairment. The lung tissues had undergone fibrosis, which made it quite impossible for the patients’ condition to revive. However, contrary to the 2020 scenario, doctors are not quite puzzled by the current cases, as most people infected with the virus have mild weakness and sore throats. Some have increasing temperatures, but it is not crossing 100 degrees. An assumption is made that the new variant is not capable of causing catastrophes in comparison to that of 2020. However, we still need to be prepared, as prevention is better than cure.

Our slight ignorance can lead to devastating consequences. In order to encounter this new wave, we need to take into consideration some protocols. We need to avoid catching colds, as it increases the chances of being infected with coronavirus. Drinking ginger tea and avoiding ice cream and frozen foods can protect us from flu attacks. In susceptible individuals, balanced meals with enormous amounts of vitamins are preferable to boost their immunity. Consumption of vitamin C is undeniably mandatory, as it is an antioxidant-containing food. Proper exercise and yoga are essential for maintaining physical and mental fitness.

Our body can fight against any infection if we remain healthy and fit. Decreased carbohydrates and fat with elevated portions of protein in the diet are necessary. Some medications like fexofenadine and montelukast could assist in reducing the mucous secretions, thereby improving the patient’s condition. However, we need to consult the physicians before taking these medicines. Regular use of sanitisers and handwashes could slow down the transmission of coronavirus.

Moreover, we need to follow the same physical distance rule we followed in 2020. If your family members are getting infected with any flu, advise them to maintain isolation from others to lessen the risk of transmission. Wearing masks and gloves can provide a protective shield and assist in facing this mighty disease. The most important thing is to build awareness among the people. We have to encourage people to abide by the rules and regulations of the Covid-19 management protocol and notify them about the drawbacks that it beholds.

In the case of people with comorbidities (diseases like diabetes and hypertension), they are suggested to regulate their blood sugar levels and blood pressure. This is important as corona deteriorates vulnerably in patients with associated risk factors. Therefore, we should conduct routine tests to maintain healthy standards. If we can encourage the entire nation to follow the safety protocols, we will successfully combat this new wave of coronavirus diseases. Our main motive should be to care for our health and those around us. We do not need to panic, as Covid-19 has become a seasonal flu through mutation. Still, we must stay vigilant to stop the infection at the mass level.

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The writer is a final year MBBS student at Rajshahi Medical College