While several countries have reported an increase in cases of the new Corona variant (EG. 5), the Kuwaiti health authorities have provided reassurances about the stability of the epidemiological and health conditions related to the Covid-19 virus and its variants within the country.
The sources explained that the few reported infections have been promptly identified and treated, and that the new mutant is currently “under control, characterized by mild symptoms and low risks, and does not pose a pandemic-level threat,” reports Al-Jarida daily.
Dr Ghanem Al-Salem, an internal medicine consultant, emphasized that despite the spread of the new EG. 5 variant of the Corona virus and the rise in the number of infected individuals, there has not been a corresponding increase in the need for hospitalization.
As a result, a majority of those infected can receive treatment at home. He further highlighted that with the start of the school season, the potential for virus transmission increases among students. Additionally, as temperatures drop and the fall and winter seasons set in, a significant increase in infection cases is expected, mirroring the patterns seen with seasonal influenza.
Al-Salem noted that new virus mutations continue to emerge but have not escalated to the level of a new pandemic, as the associated symptoms do not warrant hospitalization.
Nonetheless, he cautioned the elderly, individuals with chronic illnesses, and pregnant women to take necessary health precautions to avoid contracting the Corona virus or its variants, as well as seasonal influenza.
He emphasized that Kuwait’s healthcare sector is well-equipped and experienced in dealing with Covid-19 cases.
Dr Al-Salem stressed that there is no need for online study restrictions from a medical perspective and no justification for total or partial lockdowns, underscoring the importance of ongoing monitoring of viral cases and mutations.
Dr Al-Salem advised individuals experiencing symptoms such as high fever, headache, fatigue, cough, and loss of the sense of smell to self-isolate to prevent virus spread while ensuring adequate fluid intake and seeking medical care if necessary.
It is worth noting that Kuwait announced the detection of the “Corona” variant EG.5 in mid-August, a sub-variant of the Omicron variant of the Corona virus, which has been identified in approximately 50 countries worldwide.
Read Today's News TODAY... on our Telegram Channel click here to join and receive all the latest updates t.me/thetimeskuwait
