Are the Symptoms of Omicron Variant Any Different?

Recently, a new variant of the coronavirus has been discovered. Called the omicron variant, it has already caused a rise in cases, especially in South Africa. Naturally, concerns have risen over what the symptoms are of this new variant, given that detection of it will be helpful. Here is all that is known about it till now.

How Has the Omicron Developed Till Now?

The omicron variant was first detected by officials in South Africa, only a few days back. Once they alerted the entire world, cases were also detected in other nations across the globe. There is still very limited information that is available on this new variant. However, observations till now have revealed that the transmissibility power of this variant is quite strong since there has been a surge of cases in South Africa. It has also been revealed that the variant might have originally originated in Europe and not in South Africa. In fact, in most nations where the variant has been detected, it has been seen in travelers, especially those who are from South Africa. For now, it has not proven to be deadly, although it is spreading rapidly. While that is certainly hopeful, no possibilities should be left unguarded. According to WHO, the omicron might not be more severe than the Delta variant, which had recently left a surge of cases in Europe. However, they have also emphasized on the importance of staying alert and diligent according to the COVID protocols that have been implemented since the beginning of the pandemic, including vaccination. 

Are the Symptoms of Omicron Variant Any Different?

For now, no they are not different according to reports. WHO officials have said that there is no official statement regarding whether the omicron variant is more severe or is more infectious than other preexisting variants. It has also been understood that people who have already been infected, might just be more susceptible to this new variant. For now, WHO has stated that they have not received any information that would suggest that omicron has any particular syndrome that is different from what has been seen till now, throughout the pandemic. In fact, reports suggest that symptoms might be milder as there have been lesser cases of severe symptoms like severe breathlessness, loss of taste and smell. However, other common symptoms like coughing, sneezing, and the like have been observed. In fact, the dominant delta variant might be causing more severe symptoms than the omicron. However, it is important to remain alert as most cases of the omicron variant in South Africa have been seen in young people, most of whom anyway have more robust immune systems compared to older people.

Endnotes

It is crucial that nations across the world and their citizens remain alert to the omicron strain. New observations, reports and research is ongoing everyday to reveal more and more about this new variant. Currently, vaccination is of the utmost importance as it can help reduce the overall severity of the infection as well as reduce chances of death. As vaccinations are now mostly available in most countries across the world, it is important that citizens duly take it at their convenience. Such measures will not only help personal protection but also protect those around the individual and help everyone move ahead towards a future beyond the pandemic. 

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Disclaimer: This article is issued in the general public interest and meant for general information purposes only. Readers are advised not to rely on the contents of the article as conclusive in nature and should research further or consult an expert in this regard.