Omicron Symptoms: What We Know about Illness Caused by the New Variant

India is currently witnessing a rise in the no. of Omicron variant cases. Currently, most cases have been recorded in the regions of Delhi and Maharashtra. The first variant-affected case was found in South Africa on 24th November 2021, after which the World Health Organization (WHO)  declared it a variant of concern.

In India, Karnataka was the first state where two cases of Omicron were found on 2nd December 2021.  Scientists are still conducting research and studying this new variant to understand the cause of evolution, treatment, and symptoms of Omicron. So, basically, no one knows how much this new Coronavirus variant is going to affect us and how deadly it can be.

However, it has already been concluded that the COVID Variant "Omicron" spreads faster than other variants of the Corona Virus. Therefore it becomes imperative to take the necessary measures to protect ourselves from this new variant.

First, you need to know what are the symptoms of Omicron virus

Symptoms of Omicron Virus :

These are 5 major symptoms of Omicron :

Mild Fever

Mild Fever is one of the most common and detectable omicron symptoms. Unlike COVID-19, Omicron causes mild to moderate fever. If you're feeling mild fever, get yourself tested ASAP.

Please note that the mild fever usually goes down itself but still you need to be assured so you can take other necessary measures to prevent further spread.

Scratchy Throat

A scratchy throat is one of the most common symptoms of Omicron-variant. Please note that there is a difference between a sore throat and a scratchy throat.

A scratchy throat feels more itchy and irritated, most people try to relieve their scratchy throat by frequently coughing or rubbing their tongue against the top of their mouth. Whereas the sore throat feels painful and the person feels pain and difficulty while swallowing.

Fatigue & Exhaustion

Similar to the original Coronavirus, the Omicron variant can cause fatigue and you may also feel tired and exhausted if you are infected with the new variant.

Dry Cough

Dry Cough is observed among many Omicron-infected patients,  it is one of the most common Omicron symptoms. However, there are multiple reasons you might be experiencing a dry cough.

Pollution is one of the major causes of persistent dry cough. If you are suffering from more than 1 or 2 symptoms along with dry cough then it is necessary to get a quick diagnosis and isolate yourself.

Body Ache & Night Sweating

According to South Africa's Department of Health, Sweating at Night is also an indication that you could be infected with the  Omicron variant.

Sweating to such an extent that your clothes and bedding get wet even when the surrounding temperature is normal or cold, is a sign that you might be infected with Omicron If you are suffering from night sweats as well as major body aches, then you should definitely consult a doctor.

Tips to Protect Yourself from Omicron

These are some important tips to protect yourself from Omicron :

  • Get Vaccinated. If you have taken only the first dose till now then make sure to take the second dose on time to complete your vaccination. 
  • Maintain social distancing and always wear a mask ( cover your nose properly)
  • Wash your hands often and carry a sanitizer with you always
  • Avoid touching surfaces in public places.
  • Avoid Smoking and Drinking 
  • Improve Ventilation and air filtration of your house.
  • Try to avoid cold beverages especially in winter.

Note :

According to the latest reports, Omicron doesn't show symptoms like loss of taste or smell, stuffy or clogged nose, major respiratory problems, or high fever unlike the other variants of corona-virus.