Are the Symptoms of the Omicron Variant Different?

When the delta variant burst onto the scene in July, there was a scramble to find out if there was a difference in symptoms from the first strain of COVID-19. Similar questions have resurfaced as the omicron variant picks up steam in the U.S. Based on early observations from South Africa where the variant originated, here’s what we know so far:

• Cases appear largely mild. But, doctors there noted that many of these mild cases were in people in their 20s and 30s, and they need more data to see how it affects older people. And, many times severe cases take longer to develop.
• Infections have occurred in those who are vaccinated and who have previously had the virus.
• Common symptoms include fever, cough, muscle aches, and shortness of breath
• Loss of taste and smell is not as common, which was also a change experts saw with the delta variant
• Symptoms like fever, cough and achy muscles are common symptoms of the flu, so be sure to get checked out by your healthcare provider if you develop any of them. Many clinics test for multiple respiratory viruses at the same time.

So far researchers do expect that the variant will evade vaccines or the antibodies from a previous infection to some extent. If you aren’t vaccinated, your best line of defense is to get the shot as soon as you can. If you are vaccinated, it’s recommended for anyone 18 and older to get a booster shot. And if you are experiencing symptoms, wear a mask around others, regardless of any mandates that may or may not be in place.

It does seem that the omicron variant is more contagious, and over the next couple of weeks, medical experts and scientists will have more answers about this variant as it continues to play out in the U.S and abroad.

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