As the new Covid-19 variant threat looms over the world, the Indian Medical Association (IMA) has issued a warning about a massive third wave of coronavirus.

The doctors' body has said that the wave will hit hard if necessary precautions are not taken. Omicron covid variant has so far infected 23 people across the country.

"At a time when India is limping back to normalcy, this is a great setback. If we do not take adequate measures, we may have a massive third wave," it said.

With the scientific evidence available and the experience noted in countries of origin, it is evident that the Omicron variant will have high penetrability and will affect more people, the IMA claimed.

The doctors' body said that cases of the latest variant of coronavirus were reported from a number of major states of India and the tally, which is in the double digits, is bound to increase.

The body has also urged the government to announce "additional" doses of Covid vaccine for healthcare, frontline workers, and immunocompromised individuals amid concerns over Omicron. It also demanded that the government expedite the proposal of vaccinating individuals aged 12 to 18 years.

"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 IMA officials said.

Source- IndiaTimes