Podcasts by SANGYAN for Public Health Education and FAQs

5 Frequently asked questions about Omicron. Q18. Whether children under 5 year should undergo RT - PCR test for Covid-19 if planned to travel? No, children under 5 years of age are exempted from both pre- and post-arrival testing. However, if found symptomatic for COVID-19 on arrival or during home quarantine period, they shall undergo testing

Source: https://www.mohfw.gov.in/pdf/RevisedGuidelinesforInternationalArrivaldated20thJanuary2022.pdf

Last updated on: 20/January/2022

19. When genome sequencing is done for Omicron?

Genome Sequencing is done for surveillance purposes and is not required to be undertaken for treatment purposes.It is to be performed only in a subset of positive samples as per recommendations of INSACOG (Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomic Surveillance Consortium).The newer SARS-CoV-2 Omicron or variant detection rRTPCR assays are recommended to be used in areas with limited genomic surveillance capacity for quick detection of emergence of newer variants in such areas.

Source: https://www.icmr.gov.in/pdf/covid/strategy/Advisory_COVID_Testing_10012022.pdf

Last updated on: 10/January/2022

20. What should you do if you wish to travel Internationally?

1. All travellers should - Submit complete and factual information in self-declaration form on the online Air Suvidha portal before the scheduled travel, including last 14 days travel details.
2. Upload a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR report*. The report should have been conducted within 72 hrs prior to undertaking the journey
3. Decision of appropriate government authority to undergo home/institutional quarantine/ self-health monitoring.
4. Continuing with the earlier approach, travellers from certain specified Countries (based on epidemiological situation of COVID-19 in those Countries) are identified for additional follow up.
5. All travellers who need to undertake testing on arrival, should preferably pre-book the test online on Air Suvidha Portal, to facilitate timely testing.

Source: https://www.mohfw.gov.in/pdf/RevisedGuidelinesforInternationalArrivaldated20thJanuary2022.pdf

Last updated on: 20/January/2022

21. What is the protocol for those arriving from 'at risk' countries?

Individuals who are originating or transiting from at-risk countries will undergo post arrival testing, quarantine if tested negative, home quarantine for 7 days and shall undertake RTPCR test on the 8th day repeat RT-PCR test for COVID-19 upload negative report on Air Suvidha portal (to be monitored by the respective States/UTs).

However, if tested positive, their samples will be further sent for genomic testing at INSACOG laboratory network and shall be treated/isolated as per laid down standard protocol.The contacts of such positive case should be kept under home quarantine and monitored strictly by the concerned State Government as per laid down protocol.

Source: https://www.mohfw.gov.in/pdf/RevisedGuidelinesforInternationalArrivaldated20thJanuary2022.pdf

Last updated on: 20/January/2022

22. What are the RT-PCR test/ Isolation guidelines for those who are Travelers from Countries?

2% of the total flight preferably from different countries shall undergo post-arrival testing at random at the airport on arrival and Laboratories shall prioritize testing of samples from such travellers. All travellers (including those 2% who were selected for random testing on arrival and were found negative) will undergo home quarantine for 7 days and shall undertake RT-PCR test on the 8th day of arrival in India. Travelers shall also be required to upload results of repeat RT-PCR test for COVID-19 done on 8th day on Air Suvidha portal. If the 8th day RT-PCR test is negative, they will further self-monitor their health for the next 7 days. However, if such travellers are tested positive, their samples should be further sent for genomic testing and isolated according to standard protocol.

Source: https://www.mohfw.gov.in/pdf/RevisedGuidelinesforInternationalArrivaldated20thJanuary2022.pdf

Last updated on: 20/January/2022

5 Frequently asked questions about Omicron.

Q13. Whether the elderly patients with co - morbidities conditions like Hypertension, Diabetes, Heart disease, Chronic lung/liver/ kidney disease, Cerebrovascular disease etc patients tested for Covid- 19 can opt for home isolation?

Elderly patients aged more than 60 years and those with comorbid conditions tested positive for Covid- 19 shall only be allowed for home isolation after proper evaluation by the treating medical officer. Source:https://www.mohfw.gov.in/pdf/RevisedHomeIsolationGuidelines05012022.pdf

Last updated on: 5/January/2022

Q14. Whether the immune compromised status (HIV, Transplant recipients, Cancer therapy etc.) patients tested for Covid- 19 can opt for home isolation?

Patients suffering from immunocompromised status are not recommended for home isolation and shall only be allowed home isolation after proper evaluation by the treating Medical Officer.

Source: https://www.mohfw.gov.in/pdf/RevisedHomeIsolationGuidelines05012022.pdf

Last updated on: 5/January/2022

Q15. When to discontinue home isolation?

Patients under home isolation will stand discharged and end isolation after at least 7 days have passed from the day tested positive and no fever for 3 successive days and they shall continue wearing masks. There is no need for retesting after the home isolation period is over.

Source: Revised (Guidelines For Home Isolation of Mild /Asymptomatic COVID-19 Cases)https://www.mohfw.gov.in/pdf/RevisedIllustratedGuidelinesforHomeIsolationofMildAsymptomaticCOVID19Cases.pdf

Last updated on: 12/January/2022

Q16. Is a prior COVID-19 infection effective against the Omicron variant?

WHO reports that early evidence suggests that previous infection could offer less protection against Omicron in comparison to other variants of concern, such as Delta. Information is still limited though and we will share updates as it becomes available.

You should get vaccinated even if you've previously had COVID-19. While people who recover from COVID-19 may develop some natural immunity to the virus, we do not yet know how long it lasts or how well you are protected. Vaccines offer more reliable protection.

Source:https://www.unicef.org/coronavirus/what-we-know-about-omicron-variant#reinfection

Updated on: 17 December 2021

Q17. What is the risk of Hospitalization for Omicron for those who are vaccinated?

Risk of hospitalization is lower for Omicron cases after 2 and 3 doses of vaccine, with an 81% (77 to 85%) reduction in the risk of hospitalization after 3 doses compared to unvaccinated Omicron cases.

Source:https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/1044481/Technical-Briefing-31-Dec-2021-Omicron_severity_update.pdf

Updated on: 30 December 2021

6 Frequently asked questions about Omicron.

Q7. Would I get infected if I am fully vaccinated? Current vaccines are expected to protect against severe illness, hospitalizations, and deaths due to infection with the Omicron variant. However, breakthrough infections in people who are fully vaccinated are likely to occur. The recent emergence of Omicron further emphasizes the importance of vaccination and boosters.

Q8. What are the Indian guidelines for those who tested Omicron positive? Those tested omicron positive will be kept in isolation for a period of 10days or if negative RT-PCR.

• Thereafter home isolation for a week
• 14 days of isolation is calculated on the day of the test instead of onset of symptoms

Q9. What are the travel advices to individuals in relation to the emergence of Omicron?

• Individuals who are unwell, who have not been fully vaccinated, or do not have proof of previous infection and are at increased risk of severe COVID-19, including people 60 years of age or older and those with comorbidities (such as heart disease, cancer and diabetes) are advised to postpone travel to areas with community transmission.
• Those who wish to travel should remain vigilant for signs and symptoms of COVID-19, to get vaccinated when it is their turn and to adhere to preventive measures at all times, regardless of their vaccination status.

Q10. What does asymptomatic cases of Covid -19 means?

The asymptomatic cases are laboratory confirmed cases but not experiencing any symptoms

and have oxygen saturation more than 93% (at room air)

Q11. What does a mild case of Covid - 19 mean?

Clinically assigned mild cases are those who experience upper respiratory tract symptoms with or without fever, without shortness of breath and having oxygen saturation more than 93% (at room air).

Q12. What is the Discharge Policy of Covid - 19 (Omicron) for those Individuals who recovered from the Hospitals?

• for Mild cases admitted to a COVID Care Facility or under home isolation will undergo regular health monitoring. The patient shall be discharged after at least 7 days have passed from testing positive and with no fever for 3 successive days. There is no need for testing prior to discharge.
• for Moderate cases admitted to Dedicated COVID Health Centre

1. 1. Patients whose signs and symptoms resolve and maintain saturation above 93% for 3 successive days (without oxygen support), and stable comorbidities, if any, such patients will be discharged as per the advice of the treating medical officer. There is no need for testing prior to discharge.
   2. Patients on oxygen whose signs and symptoms do not resolve, and demand of oxygen therapy continues Such patients will be discharged as per the advice of the treating medical officer only after resolution of clinical symptoms, ability to maintain prescribed oxygen saturation for 3 successive days without oxygen support, stable comorbidities, if any.

• In case of Severe Cases including immunocompromised (HIV patients, transplant recipients, malignancy etc.) Discharge criteria for severe cases will be based on clinical recovery at the discretion of the treating medical officer.

6 Frequently asked questions about Omicron.

Q1. What is Omicron variant ? The Omicron variant, variant B.1.1.529, was first reported to WHO on 24 November 2021 and was classified as a variant of concern by WHO on 26 November 2021. The classification was made on the advice of the Technical Advisory Group on Virus Evolution, based primarily on information from South Africa that the variant has a large number of mutations and has caused a detrimental change in COVID-19 epidemiology. Source:https://www.who.int/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/coronavirus-disease-(covid-19)-variants-of-sars-cov-2 Last Updates on: 4 December 2021 Q2. What are the symptoms of Omicron?

It appears to be a mild illness that can resemble the common cold, which is another form of the coronavirus. These symptoms can include sore throat, headache, cough, fatigue, congestion and runny nose.At present there is no information avaiable to suggest that Omicron causes different COVID-19 symptoms from other COVID-19 variants.

Source: https://www.ama-assn.org/delivering-care/public-health/what-patients-may-ask-about-covid-19-omicron-variant

https://www.unicef.org/coronavirus/what-we-know-about-omicron-variant#symptoms

Last updated on: 29/December/2021 & 17/December/2021

Q3. How severe is Omicron when compared to other variants?

Early findings suggest that Omicron might be less severe than the Delta variant, but more data is needed and WHO warns that it should not be dismissed as "mild". Studies are ongoing and this information will be updated as it becomes available.

It is important to remember that all variants of COVID-19 can cause severe disease or death, including the Delta variant that is still dominant worldwide, which is why preventing the spread of the virus and reducing your risk of exposure to the virus is so important.

SOURCE: https://www.unicef.org/coronavirus/what-we-know-about-omicron-variant#severity

Last updated on: 17/December/2021

Q4. Whether the Omicron variant is more contagious than other variants?

Omicron is spreading more quickly than other variants. Based on the information available, WHO believes it is likely that Omicron will outpace the Delta variant where there is COVID-19 transmission in the community.

SOURCE:https://www.unicef.org/coronavirus/what-we-know-about-omicron-variant#transmissibility

Last updated on: 17/December/2021

Q5. Which age group is more prone to omicron?

Research is ongoing into Omicron's transmissibility. However, people who are mixing socially and those who are unvaccinated are more susceptible to contracting COVID-19.

Source : https://www.unicef.org/coronavirus/what-we-know-about-omicron-variant

Last updated on:17/December/2021

Q6. What precautionary measures should be taken to prevent Omicron?

The precautions and steps to be taken remain the same as before.The most important thing we can do to reduce risk of exposure to the virus are

• Wear a mask that covers your nose and mouth. Make sure that your hands are clean when you put on and remove your mask.
• Keep a physical distance of at least 1 meter from others.
• Avoid poorly ventilated or crowded spaces.
• Open windows to improve ventilation indoors.
• Wash your hands regularly.
• Take both doses of vaccines (if not yet vaccinated)WHO-approved COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective.

Source: https://www.unicef.org/coronavirus/what-we-know-about-omicron-variant#family

Last updated on: 17 December, 2021

4 Frequently asked questions about Nutrition and COVID-19

Q36. Are the risks different for people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes?

People of any age with certain underlying medical conditions, including type 2 diabetes, are at increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19. Based on what the CDC is reporting at this time, people with type 1 or gestational diabetes might be at an increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19. It's important to remember that people with either type of diabetes can vary in their age, complications they've developed and how well they have been able to manage their diabetes.

Q37. Should I wear a mask when exercising at the gym?

People should NOT wear masks when exercising, as masks may reduce the ability to breathe comfortably. Sweat can make the mask become wet more quickly which makes it difficult to breathe and promotes the growth of microorganisms. The important preventive measure during exercise is to maintain a physical distance of at least one meter from others or do exercises at your home.

Q38. Following delivery, should a baby still be immediately placed skin-to-skin and breastfed if the mother is confirmed/suspected to have COVID-19?

Yes. Immediate and continued skin-to-skin care, including kangaroo mother care, improves thermoregulation of newborns and several other physiological outcomes. The numerous benefits of skin-to-skin contact and breastfeeding substantially outweigh the potential risks of transmission and illness associated with COVID-19.

Q39. Is it advisable for a mother with confirmed/ suspected COVID-19 who is breastfeeding, to give a 'top-up' with infant formula milk?

No. If a mother is confirmed/suspected to have COVID-19 and is breastfeeding, there is no need to provide a 'top-up' with an infant formula milk. Giving a 'top-up' will reduce the amount of milk produced by a mother.

5 Frequently asked questions about Nutrition and COVID-19

Q31. If a woman is COVID-19 positive or suspected, can she breastfeed her child?

Yes. Women with confirmed or suspected COVID-19 can breastfeed if they wish to do so. They should:

1. Wash hands frequently with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand rub and especially before touching the baby;
2. Wear a medical mask during any contact with the baby, including while feeding;
3. Sneeze or cough into a tissue. Then dispose of it immediately and wash hands again;
4. Timely clean and disinfect surfaces that mothers have touched.
5. It is important to replace medical masks as soon as they become damp and dispose of them immediately. Masks should not be reused or touched in the front.

Q32. Can COVID-19 infection transmit through the consumption of cooked foods including animal products?

There is currently no evidence that people can catch COVID-19 from food. The virus that causes COVID-19 can be killed at temperatures similar to that of other known viruses and bacteria found in food. Foods such as meat, poultry and eggs should always be thoroughly cooked to at least 70°C. Before cooking, raw animal products should be handled with care to avoid cross-contamination with cooked foods.

Q33. Does adding black pepper in soup and other food prevent us from COVID 19?

No. There is no evidence that adding hot peppers to your food can prevent or cure COVID-19.

Q34. Can eating garlic help us to prevent from COVID-19?

No. There is no evidence that eating garlic has protected people from COVID-19. However, garlic is a food that may have some antimicrobial properties.

Q35. Can omega-3 fatty acid dietary supplementation help reduce severe complications in Covid-19 patients?

Omega-3 could play a central role in prevention of the cytokine storm, at least maybe by decreasing the intensity of inflammation and risk of mortality for patients with Covid-19. Therefore, the nutritional status for PUFAs is particularly important in tissue inflammatory status and overall immune response.

5 Frequently asked questions about Nutrition and COVID-19

Q26. Many of us have lost jobs during the pandemic. The financial crisis is real. What are some of the affordable foods that one must include in their diet to build a stronger immune system?

• Legumes and Cereals combine to have a good quality protein, e.g. Khichri, Dal roti.
• Sprouted pulses, as they have more bioavailable nutrients, including loads of Vitamin C.
• Local foods, whole grains,and fresh, seasonal, and colourful fruits & vegetables, as they are a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals.
• Spices and condiments, like- turmeric, garlic, ginger.

Q27. I am hearing a lot about the consumption of herbs, condiments and spices during this coronavirus outbreak. There are claims that they boost our immunity. Is that true?

Yes, many herbs, condiments and spices act as immunity boosters. Few of them are: Ginger, Tulsi, Neem, Lemongrass, Turmeric, Garlic, Black pepper, Munakka.

They possess antimicrobial/antiviral activity that helps fight infections. Therefore, one can focus on including them in their daily diets, in various forms, like- tea, deconcotions, chutney, additives, mouth freshener.

Q28. Does Vitamin D really help in lowering the severity of COVID-19 infection? If yes, what are the rich sources?

Yes, the recent studies have found that the adequate stores of Vitamin D in the body is associated with the lowered risk/severity of COVID-19.

But, there are few food sources of Vitamin D:

• Milk and Milk products (fortified with Vitamin D)
• Fatty fish
• Eggs
• Liver

That's why it is recommended to get sunlight exposure (exposure of 18% of the body) for a minimum of 15 minutes per day, between 11 am – 1pm, to ensure adequate stores of Vitamin D in the body.

And, in case, the above is not within the reach of an individual, he/she can always opt for Vitamin D supplements under the medical supervision.

Q29. Is it important for a mother who is confirmed/suspected to have COVID-19 to cleanse her breasts before breastfeeding her baby?

Washing the breasts every time you feed the baby is not necessary. But, if the mother is confirmed/suspected to have COVID-19, and has just coughed/sneezed over her exposed breasts or chest, she should gently clean the breast with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds before feeding the baby.

Q30. When can a mother, diagnosed with COVID-19 and has been unable to breastfeed because she was too sick, can resume breastfeeding?

When a mother feels healthy enough, she can resume breastfeeding. There is no set time period to wait after confirmed/suspected COVID-19. Also, there is no indication that breastfeeding affects the clinical course of COVID-19.

But, to guarantee her full recovery, she should be helped with her general health and diet, and utmost importance should be placed on following good hygienic practices.

5 Frequently asked questions about Nutrition and COVID-19

Q21. How diet and nutrition strengthens the immune system and reduces the Inflammation and Oxidative stress?

An optimal immune response is dependent on an adequate diet and nutrition. Protein intake, for example, is critical for optimal antibody production. Low micronutrient status, such as vitamin A or zinc, is linked to an increased risk of infection. Poor nutrient status can lead to inflammation and oxidative stress, which can cause infection. Vitamin C, vitamin E, and phytochemicals such as carotenoids and polyphenols are dietary constituents with particularly high anti-inflammatory and antioxidant capacity.

Q22. What is the potential role of turmeric in curing COVID-19 infection?

Turmeric has a compound called curcumin. This natural compound has shown beneficial effects on the development of inflammatory diseases. Effects and action mechanisms such as antiviral, anti-inflammatory, anticoagulant, antiplatelet, and cytoprotective make a promising target in the adjuvant treatment of COVID-19. More research is going on to study the effects of turmeric in curing the COVID-19 infection. But, till now there is no single "magic pill" for the cure of COVID-19.

Q23. How does the Mediterranean diet help in the prevention of Gestational diabetes during the Covid-19 infection?

Diabetes, a high BMI, high glycated haemoglobin, and elevated serum IL-6 levels have all been linked to poor outcomes in COVID-19 infection. Rising levels of several cytokines, particularly IL-6, are among the immunopathological mechanisms of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. The latter is linked to hyperglycemia and insulin resistance and may be useful in predicting the onset of GDM. MedDiet, which is high in omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals, boosts the immune system and may modulate IL-6, C reactive protein, and Nuclear Factor (NF)-B.

Following the MedDiet before and during pregnancy may have a protective effect, lowering GWG and the risk of GDM while also improving immune response to viral infections like COVID-19.

Q24. I have heard about a dietary supplement that claims to prevent COVID-19. Is that true?

No, there is no dietary supplement that can prevent COVID-19. But, dietary supplements can help boost our immunity, and that would help in lowering the risk of COVID-19.

In fact, it is adequate nutrition, that includes foods rich in various micronutrients, that can support the immune system. Also, maintaining a healthy weight, as well as having a healthy lifestyle which includes regular physical activity, safe exposure to sunlight, stress management and adequate amounts of sleep are all important to build up a stronger immune system. And with a stronger immune system, you will be better able to combat this pandemic.

Q25. Is it possible that coronavirus can spread through the groceries/food that we bring home from outside?

No, coronavirus can not spread through the groceries/food that we bring home. Rather, it spreads from an infected person's mouth or nose in the form of invisible droplets suspended in the air, when they sneeze, cough, speak, sing or breathe. Therefore, the focus should be on maintaining social distance, wearing surgical masks and keeping a distance of minimum 6 ft from the infected person or avoiding contact at all.

But, don't forget to follow good food hygiene practices after bringing the groceries/food home, to eliminate the chances of virus transmission through the surface of food or food packaging material.

5 Frequently asked questions about Nutrition and COVID-19

Q16. Do vitamin and mineral supplements prevent COVID-19 or cure those individuals who get COVID-19?

It is believed that micronutrients play a major role in improving the health system and boost immunity. A nutritionally balanced and diversified diet can provide you with micronutrients like fruits, vegetables and animal source foods. But, there is no such guidance till now on micronutrient supplementation in covid-19.

Q17. How can people with hypertension avoid complications during COVID-19 infection?

• KEEP diet low in salt
• EXERCISE regularly – briskly walk or walk at least 30 minutes a day. In situations where it is not possible to walk outdoors, this can be done at home
• QUIT smoking and avoid taking any form of tobacco. Seek help from a health professional if needed
• AVOID harmful use of alcohol
• TAKE prescribed medications for hypertension regularly.

Q18. Which type of foods should be consumed during covid-19 to boost immunity?

It is recommended to consume a variety of foods for a healthy and balanced diet , including whole grains , legumes , nuts , fruits, vegetables and animal sources . there is not any such one type of food which will prevent you against covid-19.

Q19. Is it safe to take out meals and food delivery during covid-19?

According to the CDC , COVID-19 is not likely to be transmitted through food itself . Any risk would more likely come from close contact with the person delivering the food.

Food service establishments and delivery should be following the local health department guidelines on food safety guidelines and regular screening of the employees for COVID-19 symptoms. Nowadays, establishments is now providing food with minimal or no contact with prepaying over phone , food being carried to the car for a pickup, or left at the doorstep.

Q20. Do high blood pressure medications increase the risk of getting COVID-19?

No, these medications do not increase the risk of getting covid-19 or developing any other disease. These antihypertensive medications can lower the risk of death and getting infection of covid-19.

5 Frequently asked questions about Nutrition and COVID-19

Q11. What healthy food practices to be followed at home to minimize the risk of contamination from COVID-19 infection?

• Wash vegetables and fruits before eating.
• Wash, rinse, and disinfect objects and surfaces every time before and after use.
• Keep cooked and raw foods separate, as it would prevent the harmful microbes from raw foods spreading to cooked foods.
• Use different chopping boards and utensils for cooked and raw foods to prevent cross-contamination.
• Use gloves while preparing a meal.
• Frequently disinfect surfaces which came in contact such as door knobs, grocery items etc.

Q12. Do people with diabetes have a higher chance of experiencing serious complications from COVID-19 infection?

People with Diabetes are not more likely to get the virus compared to the general public. However, if they contact COVID-19 infection, people with diabetes are more likely to have serious complications and become seriously ill from COVID-19, than those who do not have diabetes. Hence, follow a healthy diet and exercise, take medications regularly and test sugar levels frequently so as to keep your diabetes under control. When diabetic patients become sick, they may require frequent monitoring of blood glucose and adjustment of drugs including insulin, small frequent meals and adequate fluids.

Q13. Does regular physical activity prevent you from COVID-19?

No, Regular physical activity does not prevent from COVID-19 but it benefits both the body and mind. It can reduce high blood pressure, help manage weight and reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and various cancers – all conditions that can increase risk to COVID-19 infection.

Q14. How to maintain easy, affordable and healthy eating during COVID-19?

• Keep up fruit and vegetable intake rich in plenty of minerals and vitamins including antioxidants which help boost immunity.
• Swap in healthy dried or canned alternatives when fresh produce is not available like (like dried beans, pulses and grains such as lentils or canned beans and chickpeas, which provide an abundance of nutrients)
• Rolled oats cooked with milk or water can serve as an excellent breakfast option, and can be spiced up with yoghurt, chopped fruits or raisins.
• Build up a stock of healthy snacks like nuts, cheese, yoghurt (preferably unsweetened), chopped or dried fruits, boiled eggs, or other locally available healthy options as these foods are nutritious, more filling, and help build healthy eating habits that last a lifetime rather than consuming sweets or salty snacks
• Limit highly processed foods like ready-to-eat meals, packaged snacks and desserts are often high in saturated fat, sugars and salt.

Q15. Is it safe to get vaccination for a breastfeeding mother against COVID-19 infection?

Yes, It is totally safe to get vaccinated. There are not any studies found which claim that it can risk a baby's health or the mother's. There is evidence that after vaccination, antibodies are found in breast milk, which can prevent babies from infection.