Do not undermine Omicron variant just yet
The Omicron variant is said to be mild so far. However, experts warn against undermining the new variant just yet. Health officials continue to urge people to take all preventive measures so as to curb the spread of the virus.
Also See: Coronavirus: If you experience Omicron symptoms, how long should you wait before getting tested?
That being said, at a time, when India's Omicron cases have touched a new high and continue to rise, recognising the symptoms and the associated ailments is crucial. Doctors and medical professionals have reported not just the common symptoms linked to the new variant, but have also discussed the unusual signs of the same.
Read also: Coronavirus: Do Omicron symptoms show up sooner than other COVID-19 strains?
Common symptoms associated with Omicron so far
Earlier, the World Health Organization (WHO) had claimed that the newest variant of the SARS-CoV-2 may easily infect people who have either caught the virus earlier or been fully vaccinated. However, the global health agency stated that the disease will be 'milder' as compared to the Delta variant.
While doctors await further research on the same, they have listed down some of the common symptoms associated with the Omicron variant. Some of the classic symptoms are as follows:
- Mild fever that goes away on its own
- Fatigue
- 'Scratchy' throat
- 'A lot of body pain'
Read also: Coronavirus: One tell-tale sign of Omicron variant less common with the Delta variant
As opposed to earlier COVID-19 infections, patients infected with the Omicron have not reported loss of smell and taste, which was one of the tell-tale signs of coronavirus infection.
The symptom that may come as a surprise
As we know, the novel coronavirus and its variants are highly unpredictable, not only in terms of virulence, but also of severity.
Apart from that, symptoms may also vary from person to person. Having said that, while fever, fatigue and throat pain could be common indicators of Omicron, according to the UK's ZOE Covid Symptom study app, “loss of appetite” could be among the non-classic symptoms reported by patients.
Also See: Explained: Why are fully vaccinated people with no travel history testing positive for Omicron
Scientists analysed symptom data from positive cases recorded in study apps and compared it with data from early October when Delta was dominant. It was found that only 50% of people experienced the classic three symptoms i.e. fever, cough, or loss of sense of smell or taste. Loss of appetite was one of the unusual symptoms recorded in the analysis.
The app collects various data and works towards building and creating a symptoms profile for COVID-19 and its variants.
Read also: Coronavirus symptoms: Signs you most likely have Omicron and not regular cold
What to do next?
The best way to determine whether or not one has contracted the virus is by getting an RT-PCR done. If in case you test positive, isolate yourself from others and continue monitoring your symptoms. Inform people you have come in close contact with of your condition and ask them to get themselves tested and to self-isolate too.
How to prevent a COVID-19 infection
Getting yourself tested should be the first step after symptoms onset or if you have come in close contact with anyone infected.
However, why risk it if you can prevent it. That said, wear your masks regularly, maintain social distance, avoid meeting people at gatherings and parties and cancel all unnecessary travel plans for now.
COVID's Omicron variant is spreading like wildfire and it is in your hands to curb the spread.