Breakthrough COVID-19 cases are much more common than they used to be. Although COVID-19 vaccines and booster shots have dramatically lessened the amounts of virus-related hospitalizations and deaths, omicron has made initial infection more likely among those who are vaccinated. Why does this happen, though?

Our AFC Urgent Care Bronx Webster Ave. team shares some helpful answers below, so keep reading!

What Exactly Are Breakthrough Infections?

According to the CDC, a “breakthrough” infection is when a person tests positive for COVID-19 at least two weeks after becoming fully vaccinated, which also includes receiving a booster shot when eligible.

The CDC also has gone on to state that breakthrough infections should be expected, since no vaccine is 100% effective at preventing viral infection. Additionally, breakthrough infections are more common with the omicron variant than with previous variants, due to it’s unique mutations. Omicron also has different initial symptoms than previous variants did, and we’ve listed them below.

Most Common Omicron Symptoms

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

How Can I Avoid Getting Sick?

Even though COVID-19 rates have thankfully been on a dramatic decline as of late, it’s still possible to get the virus.

Vaccines and booster doses remain the best ways to protect yourself from getting sick, despite the fact that breakthrough infections have occurred. Studies have shown that boosters are 90% effective at preventing serious illness and hospitalizations. Other health practices, which we’ve listed below, can reduce your risk of testing positive for omicron even further.

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.

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