The third wave of the pandemic is affecting the Indian economy with a reduction in workplace mobility and airline traffic. There are voluntary pullbacks and state restrictions, such as night curfews and on contact-intensive services, which have led to a fall in mobility and airline traffic. While the adverse impact on economic growth is expected to be less than previous waves, the services sector is likely to bear the brunt. The spread of infections and fatalities has had an enduring impact on consumers’ sentiments regarding their financial conditions and the general economic situation.

As of 17th January, India reported 2,38,018 new Covid-19 cases, bringing its overall tally of infections to 3,76,18,271, including 8,891 Omicron variant cases. The number of active Covid-19 cases in the country has increased to 17,36,628, the highest in 230 days, with the death toll reaching 4,86,761, including 310 fresh fatalities.

Omicron Variant: What You Need to Know

The Omicron variant spreads more easily than the original SARS-CoV-2 virus. Anyone with Omicron infection can spread the virus to others, even if they are vaccinated or don’t have symptoms. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has identified the potential for a rapid increase in infections of the new variant and highlights the need for public health action to prevent severe impacts on individuals and the healthcare system.

Can UVGI be used to fight COVID Omicron?

As new COVID variants continue to emerge, UVC technology is being considered as a method to combat these variants, including Omicron, Delta Plus, Delta, and Lambda. UVC light has been proven to effectively remove nearly all viruses and bacteria from the air, including SARS-CoV-2. It has been used for many years in medical sterilization and food safety and is now being used to help keep indoor locations clean and safe.

How does UVC fight the COVID Omicron variant?

The wavelength of UVC light disrupts the replication process of DNA within a virus, deactivating its ability to reproduce. UVC has been used effectively for decades and is considered a reliable method for disinfection purposes in healthcare facilities and for research purposes. It is suggested to use fixtures containing UVGI lamps to destroy pathogens and reduce the spread of the virus in indoor environments. ASHRAE recommends the use of In-Duct ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) systems to disinfect pathogenic particles transported by air moving through ventilation systems.