COVID-19 (Coronavirus Disease 2019) is a highly infectious respiratory illness caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. First reported in Wuhan, China, in December 2019, it rapidly spread worldwide, resulting in a major pandemic. While no single medicine can completely cure COVID-19, a combination of antiviral treatments, supportive care, and preventive strategies has proven effective in managing the disease and reducing its severity. As one of the leading Coronavirus Treatment Hospitals in Chennai, Medway Hospital prioritizes early detection, quality treatment, and proactive prevention to ensure patients recover safely and swiftly with the highest standards of care.
What is the new COVID variant?
The NB.1.8.1 subvariant of COVID-19 has been designated by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a “variant under monitoring.” It was initially detected in China in January 2025 and has since been identified in multiple countries, including the United States. Within the U.S., cases have surfaced in states such as California, New York, Virginia, and Washington, mainly among international travelers entering through major airports.
NB.1.8.1 stems from the broader Omicron variant family and is genetically associated with the JN.1 lineage. Its emergence has coincided with an uptick in infections across areas like Southeast Asia, the eastern Mediterranean, and the western Pacific. Despite its geographic spread, the WHO currently assesses the global health risk posed by this subvariant as low. Encouragingly, existing vaccines are still proving effective in preventing severe illness caused by this version of the virus.
Can COVID-19 Be Cured with Medicine?
COVID-19 cannot be cured with antibiotics, as it is caused by a virus, not bacteria. However, medical treatments can significantly reduce the severity of symptoms and aid recovery:
• Antiviral Medications (e.g., Remdesivir, Paxlovid): Help control the virus if given early.
• Supportive Care: Rest, hydration, and fever-reducing medications.
• Hospital Care: Oxygen therapy, steroids, and intensive care for severe cases.
Vaccination remains the most effective protection against severe illness and hospitalization.
Common COVID-19 Symptoms (As of May 2025)
Recent variants of COVID-19 may present with the following symptoms:
• Fever or chills
• Cough (dry or productive)
• Sore throat
• Runny or blocked nose
• Loss of taste or smell
• Fatigue
• Muscle aches
• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea
Diagnostic Tests Available at Medway Hospital
1. RT-PCR Test
• Gold standard for accuracy
• Detects the virus’s genetic material
• Nasal/throat swab; results in 6–24 hours
2.Rapid Antigen Test
- Detects viral proteins
- Results in 15–30 minutes
- Best for quick screening
3. Chest CT Scan
• Identifies lung involvement in moderate to severe cases
4. Antibody Test
• Detects previous infection or vaccine response
• Not used for active diagnosis
When Should You Get Tested?
• If you develop COVID-19 symptoms
• After close contact with a confirmed case
• Before travel, surgery, or hospital admission (as per protocol)
Note: Home test kits are available, but confirm results with an RT-PCR if symptoms persist.
Treatment and Care at Medway Hospital
- Antiviral Therapy
- For high-risk patients, antiviral drugs like Paxlovid are most effective when started within the first 5–7 days of symptoms.
- Mild Symptom Management
- Rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications for fever, sore throat, and body aches.
- Medical Supervision
- Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or if you have underlying health conditions.
Causes of COVID-19 Spread and Severity (Original & New Variants)
1. Airborne Microdroplets in Confined Spaces: Minuscule virus-carrying particles are expelled when individuals talk, cough, sneeze, or breathe. In areas with limited air exchange, such as enclosed rooms, these particles can linger and be inhaled by others, facilitating infection.
2. Transmission from Symptom-Free Carriers: Some infected individuals remain symptomless yet still carry and spread the virus. These unnoticed cases contribute significantly to early transmission, especially when viral loads peak before any warning signs appear.
3. Continuous Virus Adaptation: The virus evolves over time, with variants like NB.1.8.1 developing traits that reduce the effectiveness of natural and vaccine-induced immunity. These genetic adjustments allow the virus to infect more easily, even in previously protected individuals.
4. Crowded, Poorly Ventilated Indoor Settings: Environments such as shopping malls, offices, and public transport where people gather closely without adequate ventilation create ideal conditions for the virus to spread rapidly from person to person.
5. Inconsistent Vaccination and Booster Uptake: Inadequate vaccine coverage and missed booster doses weaken community immunity. This gap in protection heightens the risk for those with health vulnerabilities or weakened immune systems, increasing the likelihood of severe disease outcomes.
Preventive Measures for COVID-19
• Vaccination: Stay updated with COVID-19 doses and boosters
• Masking: In crowded or enclosed spaces
• Hand Hygiene: Wash hands or use sanitizer frequently
• Physical Distancing: Especially in high-transmission areas
• Stay Updated: Follow health department advisories
How COVID-19 Symptoms Have Changed Over Time
Original Strain (2019–2020)
• High fever
• Dry cough
• Breathing difficulties
• Loss of taste/smell (common)
• Chest pain and fatigue
Newer Variants (2023–2024)
• Sore throat
• Runny nose or sneezing
• Mild fever
• Headache and body aches
• Occasional diarrhea
• Loss of taste/smell less common
Conclusion from Medway Hospital
COVID-19 continues to evolve, but so does our understanding and ability to manage it. With timely diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and community responsibility, we can limit its impact. Most importantly, staying vaccinated and vigilant remains key to protecting yourself and others. Medway Hospital is here to support you every step of the way — from testing and treatment to recovery and prevention.
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