What are Omicron symptoms? 5 new ones you need to watch out for
Omicron, the newest Covid-19 variant in town, has created quite a stir. The emergence of new variants like Omicron is a sign that tells us that the pandemic is not over yet. Researchers are continuously trying to know more details about this variant. Symptoms are one of the major aspects that can help differentiate between the variants.
Initially, reports suggested that symptoms associated with Omicron are no different from other variants of the Sars-Cov-2 coronavirus. But now, many studies and observations of existing cases have been pointing at minor differences between the symptoms of each variant.
OMICRON SYMPTOMS: IS THERE SOMETHING NEW?
1. RUNNY NOSE
One of the uncommon symptoms of Omicron is a running nose. According to an IANS report, a Zoe Covid study asked people to inform their Omicron symptoms. The study revealed that a runny nose is one of the common symptoms.
Brian Hjelle, a virologist and pathologist, shared some data around the symptoms of Omicron. The table consists of data collected from Omicron patients in Norway, Europe, between November 19 and December 3. The data also suggests runny nose as a new symptom of Omicron which was absent in the previous strains.
OK these are COVID symptoms from Norway among those largely well vaxed at Christmas party in Norway. Median age was 38, incubation time, 3-4 days. pic.twitter.com/Hpixvs4cuH
— Brian Hjelle, virologist (@hjelle_brian) December 16, 2021
2. BREATHING DIFFICULTY
Difficulty in breathing was one of the major symptoms reported largely during the spread of the Delta variant, whereas studies suggest that Omicron patients are less likely to report breathing difficulties.
3. SORE THROAT IS A MAJOR SYMPTOM
Sore throat is one of the initial symptoms reported by Omicron patients. As per the series of the symptoms, it is likely that the Omicron variant spreads inside the throat, unlike the previous variants which affected the lungs. As a result, Omicron may cause less damage to the lungs and more to the throat.
4. LOSS OF TASTE AND SMELL IS NOT PROMINENT
Unlike the Delta variant, loss of taste and smell is also not a common symptom of Omicron. The data shared by virologist Brian also suggests the same.
5. MORE SNEEZING
The Zoe Covid study also revealed that Omicron patients reported more sneezing.
ALSO, TIREDNESS AND HEADACHE
These two were the initial reported symptoms of Omicron. Many patients experienced extreme tiredness and headache. Tiredness and headache were also common in previous variants.
As of now, data suggests that symptoms of Omicron are more similar to common cold and flu than the previous Covid-19 variants. Point to note: Omicron is still being studied, and new data is emerging every minute.