Since the omicron variant became the dominant form of COVID-19, “breakthrough” infections began happening more and more. What was once a rare occurrence became something the CDC said was likely with this variant. But, why? And furthermore, what does a “breakthrough” COVID-19 infection even mean?

Our AFC Urgent Care Boulder team provides some helpful answers below, so read on!

What Are Breakthrough Infections?

According to the CDC, a breakthrough infection occurs when a person tests positive for COVID-19 at least two weeks after being fully vaccinated, including receiving a booster dose when eligible. Breakthrough infections are more common with omicron, due to the fact that this variant’s mutations are better at avoiding passive immunity from initial vaccines than previous variants.

Although breakthrough infections are discouraging, they don’t often cause serious illness, and the COVID-19 booster shot dramatically lowers the risk of hospitalization. So, if you deal with any of the initial signs of omicron that we’ve listed in the section below, don’t panic. Furthermore, while vaccines and boosters protect against initial infection, their major goal of vaccines prevent serious illness and death.

Common Omicron Symptoms

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

What Can I Do to Prevent Omicron Infection?

The answer remains the same—get the COVID-19 vaccine and booster shot. Both are proven to significantly lower the risk of serious illness and hospitalization, which is what will ultimately put this pandemic in the rearview mirror.

In addition to getting vaccinated and boosted, keep the preventive measures that we’ve listed below in mind.

Ways to Prevent Omicron Infection

• Wear a well-fitting N95 or KN95 mask. COVID-19 is primarily an airborne virus, and these offer the highest level of protection from inhaling respiratory droplets, 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 encouraged 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.

Feeling rough? We’re here for you! Don’t hesitate to visit our AFC Urgent Care Boulder center today.