Best Covid 19 Doctor in Mumbai At the end of 2019, a novel coronavirus was identified which later on led to a global pandemic. In February 2020, the World Health Organization designated the disease COVID -19, which stands for coronavirus 2019 and the causative virus was named as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 ( SARS – CoV – 2 ). Cough, bodyache and headache are the most common symptoms. Other features include diarrhea, sore throat, and smell or taste abnormalities. The specialist’s guidance should be sought at the earliest. Like other viruses, SARS-CoV-2 evolves over time. Certain variants have garnered widespread attention because of their rapid emergence within populations and evidence for transmission or clinical implications; these are considered variants of concern. The Omicron variant was first reported from Botswana and very soon thereafter from South Africa in November 2021. Some of the Omicron sublineages are BA.4, BA.5, BQ.1, BQ.11, BF.7, BA.2.75 and XBB. The recent ones have been increasing in prevalence worldwide. The emergence of each predominant Omicron sublineage has been associated with local increase in SARS-CoV-2 infections, suggesting a replication advantage over the prevailing variant. These variants may escape immunity and are associated with a higher risk of reinfection in individuals previously infected with a different strain. The risk of severe disease or death with Omicron infection is lower than with prior variants. Direct person to person respiratory transmission is the primary means of transmission of SARS-CoV-2. The potential to transmit the virus begins prior to the development of symptoms and is highest early in the course of illness. Transmission after 10 days of illness is unlikely. Hand washing and respiratory hygiene are paramount for prevention of SARS-CoV-2. Use of hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol is a reasonable alternative to hand washing if the hands are not visibly dirty. Avoiding close contact with individuals who have or may have COVID-19 is also important. The World Health Organization ( WHO) recommends mask wearing as part of a comprehensive approach to reducing SARS-CoV-2 transmission in either indoor or outdoor settings where there is widespread transmission and social distancing is difficult. Vaccines to prevent SARS-CoV-2 infection are considered the most promising approach for curbing the pandemic. The treatment should always be under supervision of a specialist. Outpatient management is appropriate for most patients with COVID-19. The management strategies continue to evolve, particularly in the setting of emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants.