Omicron, Symptoms, and How to Protect Yourself
Rubi Orellana
As of January 21, 2022, Omicron is the most recent coronavirus variant. It was first discovered in Botswana and South Africa in November, while later reports revealed earlier instances in the Netherlands. The first case in the United States was reported in California on December 1st of last year. It became the most common strain in the United States by late December. Omicron is categorized as a "variant of concern" by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Early reports from South Africa indicate that most cases have been mild—and that symptoms for this variant may be different from other strains. “The reports show that patients in South Africa—many of whom were young—have had severe fatigue, but no loss of taste or smell,” says Lauren Ferrante, MD, a Yale Medicine pulmonologist.
As people around the world welcomed the new year, Omicron surged more quickly than any previous variant in many areas. The new variant has driven a rising caseload in the U.S. that, at the end of 2021, far surpassed the record for new daily cases. However, the numbers of hospitalizations and deaths were still far below what they were during previous virus peaks.
What are some symptoms of Omicron?
COVID-19 symptoms, such as cough, fever, and exhaustion, are present in all of the variations, including Delta and Omicron. There is some indication that those who have Omicron have fewer problems with taste and smell. Omicron also has a lower risk of causing serious illness, such as pneumonia, which may necessitate hospitalization.
Omicron symptoms are usually minimal in fully vaccinated and/or boosted patients. Symptoms in persons who haven't been vaccinated might be exceedingly severe, requiring hospitalization or even causing death.
What can you do to protect yourself from Omicron?
According to Grubaugh, an associate professor with the Yale School of Public Health, people need to understand that variants like Omicron are a normal component of the virus's evolution. He says, "It's not shocking if there's a new variation. Delta was never intended to be the last variant—and neither is Omicron." Something new will arise as long as there is a COVID-19 epidemic anywhere on the planet."
The greatest approach to prevent new varieties, according to both Grubaugh and Dr. Murray, is to be vaccinated because the more individuals who are vaccinated, the less likely the virus will spread and evolve. The CDC recommends the Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech vaccinations if you haven't already had your vaccine and booster shot.
In reaction to Omicron, the CDC recommends that everyone who is eligible receive a COVID-19 booster vaccine. Meanwhile, Omicron and Delta continue to be threats in the United States, and experts continue to advise using infection-prevention strategies such as wearing a mask in public indoor settings in areas where community transmission is substantial or high, washing hands frequently, and keeping a physical distance from other people to protect against those variants.
Sources:
Comments