Omicron was less severe in India because of these 2 reasons: Research

Omicron had a lower impact in India than in the United States and the United Kingdom, according to a recent study, due to the presence of hybrid immunity among its population. The researchers explain hybrid immunity as immunity developed when a person who has already been infected with the virus is vaccinated.

The human body gains immunity through natural infection or vaccination, explained Dr Padmanabha Shenoy, clinical immunologist and rheumatologist, who headed the research, as quoted by news agency PTI, and further added: Hybrid immunity is the immunity generated when a person with prior infection receives a vaccine.

As more than 70% of Indians were infected with Delta during the second wave and India has vaccinated 95% of eligible population, at least with one dose, so close to three-fourths of India’s population has hybrid immunity. This hybrid immunity wall is the reason India had a relatively minor third wave.

About 65% of patients, who had received a single dose of Covishield following an infection, were able to neutralise Omicron. The researchers are currently decoding the impact of Covaxin on generating hybrid immunity and its effect on Omicron.

The study further revealed, 60% of people who had received two vaccine doses were able to neutralise the original Wuhan strain of virus, 90% of them with hybrid immunity could neutralise the original strain. Even in Delta variant also, the figures were almost similar.

The research included about 2,000 patients with auto-immune rheumatic diseases at the Centre for Arthritis & Rheumatism Excellence (CARE). It was found during the initial studies that hybrid immunity generated antibody levels 30 times higher than those who have received two doses of vaccines. Dr Sakir Ahmed of Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhubaneswar, was co-researcher for the study.

Medically Speaking

Recent Posts

Harness the Power of Rice Water

Rice water, rich in inositol, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, protects hair from sunlight damage and…

3 hours ago

“8 Powerful Herbs and Supplements to Beat Bloating and Boost Your Gut Health Naturally”

Natural Remedies for Bloating: 8 Herbs and Supplements That Work Wonders for Your Gut Health…

3 hours ago

“Unlock the Power of Oil Pulling: Discover How This Simple Practice Improves Oral Health and Freshens Your Breath”

Benefits of Oil Pulling: Stops Bad Breath, Keeps Gums Healthy, But Can't Replace Brushing Oil…

4 hours ago

WHY DO YOU EXPERIENCE RUNNY NOSE AFTER EATING SPICY FOOD?

Spicy food – whether it’s a dash of chili in your curry, a spoonful of…

4 hours ago

“4 Simple Tests to Spot Adulterated Wheat Flour: Protect Your Health with These Easy Checks”

How To Identify Adulterated Wheat Flour? Try These 4 Easy Tests Wheat flour is a…

4 hours ago

“Unlock the Power of Jaggery: 10 Surprising Health Benefits of Eating It After Every Meal”

Reasons That Will Make You Eat Jaggery After Every Meal (Potential Health Benefits Inside) Jaggery,…

4 hours ago