This pandemic has been a long, long road, but there seems like there might finally be some light at the end of the tunnel. But although COVID-19 cases have thankfully been on a rapid decline lately, “breakthrough” infections are still common.

Find out why from our AFC Urgent Care Memphis team below.

Why Do Breakthrough Infections Happen?

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. They’re much more common with the omicron variant than with previous forms of the virus, due to the fact that omicron’s mutations allow for it to escape the passive immunity that the first COVID-19 vaccines provided.

Additionally, initial omicron symptoms also look a little different, and we’ve listed them below.

Common Initial Omicron Symptoms

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

Does the COVID-19 Booster Shot Work?

Yes, it does. Studies show that booster shots are 90% effective at avoiding hospitalizations due to omicron in recent trials conducted by the CDC.

Even though vaccine efficacy has decreased a bit in terms of protecting against initial infection, the vaccine and booster shot still remain the best protection against serious illness and hospitalization. Protect yourself even further from initial infection by considering the suggestions we’ve listed below.

Ways to Lower Your Risk of 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 Memphis team today.