Omicron: India May Witness Massive Third Wave Of COVID-19; No Need For Travel Ban, Says IMA

TPI Staff December 7, 2021

96 1 minute read

COVID-19 Recovery Rate In Country Crosses 96 PerCent

Mumbai: The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has said that India could witness a third wave of COVID-19 if adequate measures are not taken to deal with the new coronavirus variant Omicron.

Addressing a press conference, the IMA claimed that the Omicron version, which has been labelled as the ‘Variant of Concern’ by the World Health Organization (WHO), would have a higher penetration potential and affect more people.

The doctor’s body said, “At a time when India is returning to normalcy, this is a big setback. If we do not take adequate measures, we may have a big third wave.”

Amid the threat posed by the new variant Omicron of COVID-19, the IMA asked the central government to announce “extra” doses of the COVID vaccine for healthcare, frontline workers and immunocompromised persons.

“At this time, the IMA also appeals to the government to make an official announcement of additional doses (of the vaccine) for healthcare, frontline workers and boosting immunity,” the doctors’ body said.

The doctor’s body praised governments’ efforts to vaccinate more than 50 per cent of the adult population with at least one dose, saying that vaccines against the deadly infectious virus prevent severe forms of infection. IMA appealed to people to get themselves vaccinated against coronavirus.

IMA urged people to follow social distancing norms and wear masks in public places. It also appealed to the citizens to organize social gatherings on a large scale.

“Therefore, if we can focus on immunization philanthropically, India can certainly overcome the impact of Omicron. IMA appeals to all to take the vaccination as a priority agenda and accessible to all Focus to reach out to people and ensure that the second dose is given to all the needy.

The doctor’ body did not support the imposition of a travel ban. However, it appealed to everyone to avoid unnecessary travel.

“IMA does not support the imposition of a travel ban. However, we appeal to all to avoid unnecessary travel, especially pleasure tourism and social gatherings. All our public transport system should strictly adhere to code of covid protocol,” it said.