Vaccination and following COVID-19 protocol is the only protection against mutations, say doctors

Scientists are worried that the mutations may now allow it to evade existing vaccines and spread quickly.

Omicron, which is the most mutated form of COVID-19 discovered thus far with 32 mutations to the spike protein, has scientists worried that the mutations may now allow it to evade existing vaccines and spread quickly.

Doctors and experts in India said that mutation was inevitable and the only protection the general public can offer itself was vaccination, use of masks and avoiding gathering. “This becomes vital as the mutations are manifesting symptoms previously not commonly seen with COVID,” they say.

Saumitra Das, director, National Institute of Biomedical Genomics and Professor of Indian Institute of Science, said that vaccination and following COVID-19 protocol was the only way to protect oneself. “It is too early to fully understand the extent of damage that this virus can cause. While vaccinations don't cut transmission it does reduce severity and number of subsequent deaths. It’s too early to understand the impact of this new mutation.’’