Updated Reminder on COVID-19 Prevention from Changsha CDC

2022-12-06

According to the genetic sequencing data, the recent round of COIVD-19 spread around Changsha City is caused by the BA.5.2 Omicron subvariant.

An expert from the Changsha Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Changsha CDC) gave explanations on the characteristics of this subvariant and advice about scientific prevention and control.

The BA.5.2 Omicron subvariant has the following characteristics compared with the previous subvariants:
- Decreased pathogenicity and virulence;
- Lower rate of severe cases and mortality;
- Shorter incubation period but quicker spread; and,
- More asymptomatic cases.

Changsha CDC reminded the public that every person is the first to be held accountable for their health. Make proper personal protection and collaborate with the epidemic prevention and control measures.

First, physical protection is proven effective in curbing virus spreads.

Respiratory droplets and close contact with infected patients are still the primary methods of transmission of the Omicron subvariants. Exposure to virus-contaminated objects and aerosols can also cause infection.
Wearing facial masks properly, washing hands frequently, making regular ventilation, avoiding gathering, and keeping social distance are easy and practical ways against infection. Moreover, N95 and KN95 masks that offer a higher level of protection are recommended when necessary.

What conditions are "necessary" for wearing N95 or KN95 masks?
- Be in a crowded indoor public place, such as shopping malls, supermarkets, and museums;
- Take public transport;
- Be in a crowded outdoor place;
- Go to higher-risk places such as hospitals;
- Have the symptoms such as stuffy nose, cough, sneezing, and fever; and,
- Be among the key populations, including medical workers and police officers.

Second, it is crucial to complete an entire course of vaccination.

The vaccination against COVID-19 can effectively reduce severe cases and mortality rates. The eligible people without a contraindication, especially the elderly, are advised to get vaccinated as soon as possible to build herd immunity barriers.

Third, please pay close attention to the health condition of yourself and your family.

Once symptoms such as fever, cough, fatigue, pharyngeal pain, stuffy nose, reduced sense of taste and smell, and diarrhea occur, you should wear a disposable medical mask, or a mask with higher-level protection, and seek medical treatment at a nearby fever clinic in time. Please truthfully report relevant travel and contact history, and avoid taking public transportation when seeking treatment.

This article is from the Hunan Provincial Government www.enghunan.gov.cn.

Translator: Pang Yuehui

Chinese source: Voice of Hunan