It has been two years since the COVID-19 pandemic took over our lives and confined us to our homes. Yet, despite all the efforts, the virus continues to spread, causing worry and concern. Especially with Omicron and its sub-variant wreaking havoc in several countries, it has sent alarm all around the world.
With the virus changing its form continuously, its symptoms have also changed. To get medical aid in time, it's important to understand the symptoms. So, if you're looking for information on the latest symptoms of COVID-19, you're in the right place.
But first, let's understand what the old symptoms were and why they are no longer enough to diagnose the disease.
Past symptoms and why they're not an indicator now
At the onset of the pandemic, fever, dry cough, and shortness of breath were widely recognized as the typical symptoms of COVID-19. However, as the virus has undergone significant mutations, the symptoms associated with the disease have also evolved.
Several factors have influenced how COVID-19 presents itself in individuals today. These include the widespread distribution of vaccines, immunity acquired from previous infections, and the emergence of the highly transmissible Omicron variant.
As a result of these factors, researchers have noticed a shift in the symptoms experienced by people with COVID-19. Rather than the classic symptoms, upper respiratory symptoms are now more commonly observed.
What are the current COVID-19 symptoms?
Since the pandemic continues to evolve, tracking the emergence of new variants, such as the Omicron mutant, has become increasingly complex and challenging. However, it is important to pay close attention to this and other new variants, as they can significantly impact the course of the pandemic.
According to recent studies, the Omicron mutant of the SARS-CoV-2 virus is among the most highly transmissible of all known COVID-19 variants. With an R0 value of approximately 10-18.6, each individual infected with Omicron can potentially infect 10-18.6 people in their immediate surroundings. This highlights the need for continued vigilance and precautions to prevent the spread of the virus.
In addition to its high transmissibility, the Omicron variant may also be associated with different symptoms than the classic COVID-19 symptoms of fever, dry cough, and shortness of breath. Thus, it is important to be aware of the evolving nature of the virus and its symptoms to diagnose and treat COVID-19 effectively.
So, here is a list of the new COVID-19 symptoms.
#1 Mucus and Runny nose
Although mucus and runny nose are common flu cold symptoms, they are new COVID-19 symptoms as well. These symptoms last for around two to five days after the virus is detected.
#2 Nasal blockage
Swelling of the blood vessels and fluid buildup in the nose can cause congestion, another new common symptom of COVID-19.
#3 Severe headache
Another new symptom of COVID-19 is severe headaches. It is a moderate to severe pain with a pressure or stabbing sensation. The pain is felt on both sides of the head and usually lasts more than three days.
#4 Night sweats
Night sweats are the most recent symptom to be added to the COVID-19 list. These episodes entail the appearance of abrupt, severe sweating.
However, this symptom might be connected to underlying illnesses or other medical disorders.
#5 Myalgia
Muscle pain, or Myalgia, is another COVID-19 symptom. It occurs because of the immune system's response to the virus, which releases inflammatory chemicals that cause muscle pain.
This symptom was particularly prevalent in 2021 during the emergence of the Omicron variant. While Myalgia intensely affects unvaccinated people, even vaccinated individuals may experience some discomfort.
In addition to muscle pain, some other new symptoms of COVID-19 include fever with a dry cough, sneezing, a husky voice, fatigue, and headache.
An important note: Although new symptoms have emerged with respect to the mutated virus, it doesn't mean that the classic symptoms like fever, cough, and sore throat are no longer relevant now. The primary symptoms of COVID-19 remain the same.
In conclusion
The above-mentioned new COVID-19 symptoms are not limited to unvaccinated people. Vaccinated people can also experience these symptoms. The only difference is that in vaccinated persons, these symptoms may not be as acute or intense as in unvaccinated people.
That being said, while vaccination reduces the severity of the virus, we must not let our guard down. When we look at the current conditions of nations like China and Thailand as a result of the rise of sub-variants of COVID-19, it is apparent that the pandemic is far from over.
And the only way we can save ourselves from this is by being up-to-date, taking necessary precautions, and knowing the symptoms so they can be treated as soon as possible.
Stay informed, stay safe, and let's fight this virus together!
28 February 2023
4 mins read
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