Coronavirus: Amid rising Omicron cases, here's what you should do if you feel sick or test positive for COVID-19

Growing evidence suggests that the new coronavirus variant Omicron is highly transmissible. The World Health Organization (WHO) in a latest update said that the number of Omicron cases is doubling over a period of 1.5 to 3 days in countries with documented community transmission.

The variant of concern has been detected in at least 89 countries, with India's tally reaching a whopping 150 cases across 11 states. That said, while the numbers have only shot up in such a short span of time, it is important to stay vigilant and in case of an infection, one must be prepared and should know how to manage it.

Read also: Coronavirus: COVID’s Omicron variant enters Indian borders; What steps should you take now

The new variant is said to cause mild infections so far.

Currently, the list of symptoms associated with the Omicron variant is said to be 'unusual' to some extent, almost different from the classic COVID-19 symptoms.

While mild fever, 'scratchy' throat, fatigue and 'lots of body pain' are common symptoms linked to the Omicron variant, symptoms like loss of sense of smell and taste and clogged nose have not been common in patients.

That said, some of the symptoms may seem like a regular cold, but experts advise getting tested for COVID-19 as soon as the symptoms arise.

Read also: Coronavirus symptoms: Signs you most likely have Omicron and not regular cold

At a time when Omicron cases are rapidly increasing, do not misinterpret or assume your symptoms to be a cold. Get yourself tested.

If in case you feel sick or test positive for the virus, self-isolate yourself from everyone around. Those living with their family, friends or have a roommate must distance themselves from them. Separate yourself, your things and utensils and do not come in contact with your loved ones for a while.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends isolating for 10 days after you test positive.

As and when you test positive, recollect your memories and think of all the places and people you have visited recently. Let those who have come in close contact with you know about your situation and ask them to isolate themselves too.

Anyone who has been in close contact i.e. less than six feet from you for 15 minutes or more needs to be alerted immediately, so that they do not transmit the virus to more people, given that they have contracted the virus.

Do not feel ashamed, guilty or overwhelmed by your condition. The novel coronavirus is an unpredictable disease and anyone and everyone can get infected. Remember to let people know so as to protect the most vulnerable in society.

From the first day of symptoms onset to the day you test negative, continue monitoring your symptoms regularly. COVID-19 symptoms are said to fluctuate from time to time and what may not seem serious could lead to complications.

In case you experience shortness of breath, breathing difficulties, chest pain or other complications, seek medical help immediately.

Keep certain healthcare devices like thermometer and oximeter by your side. These will keep you informed about your body temperature and blood oxygen levels respectively.

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a COVID-19 patient can stop isolating themselves after a 10-day isolation period without getting tested. However, people can stop isolating after 7 days if they test negative for the virus.

The health agency considers your day zero to be your first day of symptoms, whereas your first day would be the full day after you develop symptoms.

Once you have recovered from the virus, continue taking all precautionary measures. Wear your masks and maintain social distancing.

Having said that, if you've just recovered from the disease, do not exert your body too much. Give yourself time to heal fully. Rest is extremely crucial and if you're a fitness enthusiast, do not start off with heavy workouts. Rather take it one step at a time. Post-COVID syndrome is real and it is important that you pay heed to your recovering body.