EDITOR, The Tribune.

The newest strain of COVID-19 is spreading like a wild fire on the west coast, fiercely and uncontrolled. Researchers are discovering how and why these strains affect us in different ways.

Findings published in the journal Hypertension declare that nearly half of Americans have high blood pressure, and that alone more than doubles their chances of being hospitalised if they are infected with the Omicron variant of COVID-19. The kicker to this is that even if you have been vaccinated and boosted against COVID-19, you can still acquire the variant.

Avoid infection. That’s it. And the only way you can do this? Well, you all know, don’t you?

Avoid contact with others outside your community (Family/home).

Wear a mask when you are with strangers and in crowds.

Wash your hands constantly.

The three-meter tool still works you know.

People with hypertension (high blood pressure) who acquire COVID-19 are at a much higher risk than those physically healthy. A research study in Britain studied 912 patients who had acquired Omicron while having been vaccinated. 145 ended up in hospital. Many of those hospitalised had hypertension and no other risk factors. This was, of course, critical information. 38% of British subjects have hypertension, and almost 50% of Americans too. The risk factors are severely pronounced. Investigators also found out that patients infected in 2020 who were obese and diabetic had a greater chance of being hospitalised. These illnesses and conditions boost the risk of hospitalisation during this omicron surge.

Healthy habits and dispositions are critical conditions in preventing hospitalisation of those infected with Omicron.

Stay well - Be Well- Stay safe.

STEVEN KASZAB

Bradford, Ontario

July 25, 2022.