Two uncommon signs of coronavirus
The symptoms of the omicron variant are more or less the same as common cold. There are minor differences that can make it difficult to differentiate between the two conditions that affect the respiratory system. The overlapping symptoms can create a real confusion at the current time when the cases of omicron are soaring across the globe and the drop in the temperature is increasing the risk of a common cold. But experts warn that two symptoms appear rapidly in the case of omicron. Recognising these signs can help you get early treatment and reduce the risk of complications.
The two uncommon signs
The initial studies carried out to understand the nature of the omicron variant suggest that it does not have similar symptoms as the original strain. As per experts, it is common in the case of variants to have different symptoms. The same is with omicron. But the symptoms of omicron are similar to those of cold, but two things come gradually with the onset of omicron and are not witnessed in cold- headache and fatigue.
Other common symptoms of omicron
As per the World Health Organization (WHO), the new variant can infect more people as it is three-time more transmissible than the previous ones. The virus in some cases may even surpass the immunity provided by the vaccine and natural infection. However, the symptoms of the omicron variant may not be that severe like the Delta variant that led to the second wave and claimed millions of lives worldwide earlier this year. A lot more research is needed in this area, some of the common symptoms of omicron include:
Mild fever that goes away on its own
Fatigue
Scratchy throat
A lot of body pain
Unlike previous cases of COVID-19 infections, the Omicron variant may not lead to loss of taste and smell, which is a tell-tale sign of the viral infection.
Comparing omicron and with Delta
Experts have not been able to differentiate between the symptoms of the Omicron and Delta variants. The data collected so far reveal that only 50 per cent of people experience the classic three symptoms of coronavirus- fever, cough, or loss of sense of smell or taste. Apart from these the other symptoms in both the types of variant include:
Runny nose
Headache
Fatigue (mild or severe)
Sneezing
Sore throat
Read more: Coronavirus variant: Two symptoms of Omicron not witnessed in the case of cold
How to protect yourself from the omicron variant
Even though no clear information is available on the effectiveness of the vaccine currently being administered, getting vaccinated is the only way to cut down the risk of infection. With Christmas and New Year just around the corner, the risk of infection is even greater. Even though you have got two doses of the vaccine, it is best to stay indoors and avoid social gatherings. Wear a mask all the time, maintain hygiene and talk to your doctor if you witness any symptoms.