The new coronavirus variant "Omicron," first discovered in South Africa, has now entered many countries, leading to a rapid increase in cases. The World Health Organization recently warned about the new variant, stating it could pose "very high" risks and could overwhelm healthcare systems. Last week, the number of COVID cases rose by 11 percent globally, forcing many countries to impose restrictions, according to timesofindia.
Experts and health agencies have linked the new coronavirus variant to mild infections, with very few reported deaths in the United Kingdom and the United States. However, the WHO continues to urge people to take the variant seriously and not dismiss it as a mild illness. The speed at which the variant spreads has raised concerns among doctors and scientists around the world.
### Common Symptoms Associated with the Omicron Variant
Most cases of Omicron have been mild, and many doctors have repeatedly listed the most common symptoms, according to the UK’s "Zoe Covid" app, a self-reporting symptom platform. Here are some common symptoms reported for "Omicron":
- Mild fever
- Sore throat
- Runny nose
- Sneezing
- Significant body aches
- Fatigue
- Night sweats
In addition to these, two unusual symptoms have recently emerged: nausea accompanied by vomiting and loss of appetite. Moreover, your skin may also indicate an infection from the new COVID variant.
The symptom study app has highlighted one skin symptom of Omicron, which is the "rash," often associated with COVID. Previous studies have suggested it may be a sign of inflammation caused by the coronavirus. The "Zoe Covid" app indicates that, based on frequency, the rash should be considered a "fourth key sign" of "COVID".
Reports have indicated that COVID-19 can cause hand and foot swelling, known as "COVID toes," leading to red and purple bumps on the fingers and toes, which may result in pain and itching. Additionally, there are two other types of rashes that may accompany COVID patients: hives and prickly heat rash. While the former appears suddenly as bumps and can fade quickly, the latter consists of small, itchy red bumps anywhere on the body, commonly found on the elbows, knees, and backs of the hands and feet.
