Over the past several weeks, you’ve likely heard of “breakthrough” cases and infections more than you did in 2021. This is due to the emergence of the omicron variant, which is more elusive than previous variants.

Although breakthrough cases have become more common, there is lots of evidence supporting the efficacy of vaccines and booster shots.

Our AFC Urgent Care Greenwood team provides more explanation on breakthrough infections and why it’s still important to be vaccinated below, so keep reading!

What Are Breakthrough Cases?

A breakthrough case, according to the CDC, occurs when a person tests positive for COVID-19 at least two weeks after being fully vaccinated, which includes receiving a booster shot if eligible.

While this may seem shocking and frustrating to those who are skeptical of vaccines, the CDC has stated that breakthrough infections should be expected due to the fact that no vaccine is 100% effective in preventing viral infection. And this doesn’t mean that the vaccine and booster shots don’t work. The essential purpose of vaccinations is to avoid serious illness and hospitalization, which the COVID-19 vaccines and booster shots have been successful in doing.

Most Common Omicron Symptoms

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

Should I Still Get the Vaccine?

Yes, you should. Despite breakthrough infections, studies show that vaccinations in addition to booster shots have been shown to be 90% effective at preventing hospitalizations due to omicron in recent trials conducted by the CDC.

While being immunized offers the best protection, the health precautions that we’ve listed below can also help to keep you healthy.

Ways to Prevent 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.

Have further questions about breakthrough infections or the COVID-19 vaccine? We can provide the answers you need. Don’t hesitate to visit our AFC Urgent Care Greenwood center or give us a call today!