Coronavirus: Study finds 80% COVID cases in the UK have THIS common Omicron symptom

The Omicron variant wreaked a lot of havoc in the past few months. While it was not as deadly as the Delta, it was highly transmissible and spread across nations in no time. While case numbers in many parts of the world have dropped down, the United Kingdom is experiencing another surge in COVID-19 infections.

According to the UK's Health Secretary, an increase in coronavirus cases was "expected" since many of the COVID-19 restrictions were lifted and people were yet again moving freely.

Most recent data from the Office of National Statistics COVID-19 Infection Survey suggests a rise in cases across the UK.

Referring to the same, in a YouTube video, Professor Tim Spector, Head of ZOE Covid symptom app, said, "Predicted cases on the rise again for the first time in weeks."

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UK's ZOE COVID symptom app provides important insights and updates into various symptomatic and asymptomatic infections across the United Kingdom. It has data from a million users, who self-report their symptoms on a weekly basis.

As per the app, there has been an uptick in the number of COVID-19 cases in the UK. In addition, it has also noted a symptom most prevalent among people, which is "runny nose".

"Runny nose is showing up in nearly 80 percent of all cases which is quite amazing really," said Prof. Spector. According to him, this shows that the Omicron variant really affects the nose.

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Rhinorrhoea is a condition associated with excessive secretions from the nasal glands. Commonly called a runny nose, it can range from clear, watery fluid to thick mucus. It is commonly linked to conditions such as rhinitis, nasal or sinus infection.

Apart from runny nose, the symptoms study app has also listed a few other Omicron symptoms prevalent in infected people.

- Sore, "scratchy" throat

- Headache

- Persistent cough

- Muffled voice

- Night sweats and chills

- Fatigue and body and joint pains.

Since UK health officials attribute the latest rise in COVID-19 cases to easing of lockdowns and lifting of restrictions, it is imperative that we take all necessary precautions. Although mild, the Omicron variant and other COVID-19 strains are still very much present among us and can lead to severe complications in people who belong to the high risk groups.

That said, wear your masks regularly, do not make unnecessary contact and follow proper hand hygiene. Those of you who have not yet received your vaccines, get it immediately. People who are eligible for booster vaccines should also receive it as soon as possible.