COVID-19 (Coronavirus Disease 2019) is a viral infection caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. First identified in December 2019 in Wuhan, China, it quickly became a global pandemic. COVID-19 cannot be treated with antibiotics, but antiviral medications like Remdesivir and Paxlovid, given early, help reduce viral replication. Supportive care such as rest, hydration, and symptom management is essential. Severe cases may need hospitalization, oxygen therapy, or steroids. At Sunway Medical Centre, one of the trusted Coronavirus Treatment Hospitals in Chennai, we follow evidence-based protocols to provide comprehensive care. Vaccination remains the best prevention against severe illness.
What is the new COVID variant?
The NB.1.8.1 COVID-19 subvariant has been categorized as a “variant under monitoring” by the World Health Organization (WHO). Initially spotted in China in January 2025, this strain has since made its way into various parts of the world, including the United States. In the U.S., infections have been recorded in states like California, New York, Virginia, and Washington, predominantly in international passengers arriving at major airports.
Classified under the Omicron family, NB.1.8.1 is genetically linked to the JN.1 sublineage. Health authorities have noted a spike in related cases across regions such as the eastern Mediterranean, Southeast Asia, and the western Pacific. Despite this increased activity, the WHO currently considers the variant’s impact on public health to be minimal. On a positive note, current vaccines continue to offer strong protection against severe symptoms associated with this strain.
Symptoms of COVID-19 (As of May 2025)
Common symptoms seen in recent variants include:
• Fever or chills
• Cough (dry or with phlegm)
• Shortness of breath
• Sore throat
• Nasal congestion or runny nose
• Loss of taste or smell (less common than before)
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea
COVID-19 Testing Services at Sunway Medical Centre
We provide comprehensive testing for accurate and timely diagnosis:
1. RT-PCR Test (Gold Standard):
• Detects viral RNA
• High sensitivity and specificity
• Results in 6–24 hours
2. Rapid Antigen Test:
• Detects viral proteins
• Provides results in 15–30 minutes
• Suitable for quick screening
3. Chest CT Scan:
• Assesses lung condition in moderate/severe cases
• Helpful in identifying pneumonia or lung inflammation
4. Antibody Test (Serology):
• Checks for past infection or post-vaccination response
• Not used for diagnosing active infection
When Should You Get Tested?
• If you experience symptoms such as fever, sore throat, or fatigue
• If you have been in close contact with a confirmed case
• Prior to travel, medical procedures, or hospitalization
Home Test Kits are widely available, but we recommend confirming results through laboratory-based RT-PCR testing when needed.
COVID-19 Treatment & Care at Sunway Medical Centre
Our approach includes:
• Antiviral Medications: Effective for high-risk individuals when started within 5–7 days of symptom onset.
• Symptomatic Care: Mild cases are managed with rest, fluids, and symptom-relieving medications.
• Medical Supervision: Patients with worsening symptoms or existing medical conditions are encouraged to seek professional care without delay.
Causes of COVID-19 Spread and Severity (Original & New Variants):
1. Virus-Carrying Droplets in Enclosed Airspaces: Tiny infectious droplets released during normal breathing, talking, coughing, or sneezing can hover in the air for extended periods, especially in indoor areas with poor airflow. Inhalation of these particles significantly raises the risk of infection.
2. Spread by Individuals Without Symptoms: People who contract the virus but do not exhibit any noticeable symptoms can still unknowingly pass it on to others. This silent transmission is particularly common during the initial days when the virus multiplies rapidly.
3. Genetic Shifts in the Virus: The SARS-CoV-2 virus continues to undergo genetic changes. New versions, like the NB.1.8.1 variant, can partially evade immunity developed through vaccination or prior infection, making reinfection and further spread more likely.
4. Close Contact in Indoor Public Spaces: Tightly packed indoor areas—like buses, offices, or retail stores—with limited ventilation create a favorable setting for the virus to pass quickly from one person to another due to close proximity and stagnant air.
5. Irregular Immunization Practices: When segments of the population skip vaccines or delay booster doses, it weakens overall public protection. This leaves those with chronic conditions, elderly adults, and immune-compromised individuals especially vulnerable to serious illness.
Prevention is the Best Medicine
To protect yourself and others:
• Stay Vaccinated: Keep up with your COVID-19 vaccinations and booster doses.
• Wear a Mask: Especially in enclosed or crowded areas.
• Maintain Hand Hygiene: Wash hands frequently or use hand sanitizers.
• Observe Social Distancing: Particularly in high-risk environments.
• Stay Updated: Follow guidance from local health authorities and global health bodies.
How COVID-19 Symptoms Have Changed Over Time
Original Strain (2019/2020):
• High fever
• Dry cough
• Breathing difficulty
• Loss of taste and smell (common)
• Body pain and fatigue
• Chest pain in severe cases
Recent Variants (Omicron, JN.1, etc.):
• Mild fever
• Sore throat
• Runny nose
• Sneezing
• Productive cough
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Gastrointestinal symptoms (e.g., diarrhea)
• Loss of taste/smell is now less frequent
Conclusion
COVID-19 continues to evolve, but with early detection, timely care, and preventive practices, its impact can be effectively managed. Sunway Medical Centre remains committed to providing accurate diagnosis, expert treatment, and patient-focused care to support you and your family during this time.
