India may see a massive 3rd COVID-19 wave if adequate steps not taken: IMA

New Delhi: The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has said that India may witness a massive third wave of COVID-19 if adequate measures are not taken to tackle the new Coronavirus variant Omicron.

Addressing a press conference, the IMA claimed that the Omicron variant, which has been labelled as ‘Variant of Concern’ by the World Health Organisation (WHO), will have high penetrability and will affect more people.

"At a time when India is limbing back to normalcy, this is a great setback. If we do not take adequate measures, we may have a massive third wave," the doctor’s body said.

Amid the threat posed by COVID-19 new variant Omicron, the IMA asked the central government to announce "additional" doses of Covid vaccine for healthcare, frontline workers and immunocompromised individuals.

"At this juncture, IMA also appeals to the government to officially announce additional dose (of vaccine) be given to healthcare, frontline workers and immunocompromised individuals to augment the immunity," the doctors' body said.

The doctor’s body praised the efforts of governments to inoculate over 50 per cent of the adult population vaccinated at least with one dose, saying that the vaccines against the deadly contagious virus prevent severe forms of infection. The IMA appealed to the people to get themselves vaccinated against coronavirus.

The IMA urged the people to follow social distancing norms and wear masks in public places. It also appealed to the citizens to put on hold massive social gatherings.

"So, if we can altruistically be focused on vaccination, India can definitely overcome the impact of Omicron. IMA earnestly appeals to everyone concerned to take the vaccination as priority agenda and focus attention to reach all the unreached and also ensuring the second dose is given to all the needy."

The doctor’ body did not support the impooition of a travel ban. However, it appealed to everyone to avoid unnecessary travel.

"IMA does not support the imposition of a travel ban. However, we appeal to all to avoid unnecessary travel, especially pleasure tourism and social gatherings. All our public transport system should strictly adhere to code of covid protocol,” it said.