Breakthrough infections are much more common than they used to be, but why?

Although some might think this is due to vaccines not being effective, this isn’t true. Our AFC Urgent Care Powdersville team further explains below, so keep reading!

What Are Breakthrough Infections?

Before we understand why breakthrough infections happen, it’s important to first know what they are. Breakthrough infections happen when a person tests positive for COVID-19 at least two weeks after becoming fully vaccinated, including receiving a booster shot when eligible.

The reason breakthrough infections are much more common now is due to the fact that the omicron variant—the current dominant form of the virus—is much more able to elude the passive immunity provided by initial COVID-19 vaccines. The omicron variant also arrived at an inopportune time, when vaccine-related immunity was beginning to fade among those who had had their injections early in the year and hadn’t received a booster shot yet. Nonetheless, the purpose of the COVID-19 vaccines and booster shots is to prevent serious illness and hospitalization, which they have accomplished.

Most Common Omicron Symptoms

• Cough
• Fatigue or tiredness
• Congestion and runny nose
• Sore throat
• Headache

How Beneficial Are Booster Shots?

Extremely beneficial. Studies show that booster shots are 90% effective at preventing serious illness and hospitalizations due to omicron in recent trials conducted by the CDC.

Although it is true that protection against initial infection has waned a bit, protection against serious illness and death are what will bring this pandemic to an end. So, get your vaccine if you haven’t yet or booster shot when you’re eligible! Below, we’ve listed a few extra ways to lower your risk of getting the coronavirus.

Additional Ways to Prevent Infection

• Wear a well-fitting N95 or KN95 mask. These offer the highest level of protection, according to the CDC.
• Wash your hands with soap and water thoroughly and often. Make sure to wash for at least 20 seconds each time to properly rid of lingering bacterial and viral particles.
• Be smart with where you go and the events you attend. Even though physical distancing is still recommended by the CDC, not many adhere to it anymore. If you are immunocompromised, live with someone who is at high risk of becoming seriously ill or you have young children at home, you may want to be more cautious and keep your distance in public.

We’re here for you now and always! Don’t hesitate to visit our AFC Urgent Care Powdersville team today.