Coronavirus: Study warns against the new top COVID symptom

As COVID-19 cases drop in and around the world, people have become more relaxed and less vigilant. While it is good news and a positive sign, one must not forget that the pandemic is still ongoing. People are still getting infected, hospitalised and succumbing to the virus. With newer variants, the symptoms are constantly changing, maintaining that the virus is still unpredictable and concerning.

Also read: Explained: The mystery of why some people don’t get COVID

According to new research from India, published in the Cureus Journal of Medical Science, 200 patients were infected with a range of Omicron BA.2 strains, of which 82 percent experienced a fever. The findings suggest that a sore throat or a cough are no longer the top symptom of COVID-19.

So far, experts i.e. the Zoe Health Study run by Professor Tim Spector, claimed that the most common symptoms include: sneezing, sore throat, nasal congestion, cough, and headache. However, that was not what the Indian researchers said. Fever is said to be the most common and top COVID symptoms, as per the new study.

The study however suggested that most of the patients didn’t require treatment to recover.

In addition, it was also highlighted that the main variant of focus was Omicron BA.2, also known as ‘stealth Omicron’.

Also read: Poor social contacts increase risk of heart attacks and stroke by more than 25%, find researchers

As per the study, just under half of the participants had a cough and more than a third had cold symptoms.

Other symptoms included:

- Fatigue

- Headache

- Muscle pain.

The study also noted that only five percent required hospitalisation, just over four percent required oxygen.

However, three respondents who took part in the study succumbed to the virus.

According to the Mayo Clinic, people with pre-existing comorbidities like heart disease, lung problems, brain and nervous system conditions, diabetes, cancer and obesity, and those who have a compromised immunity are at a greater risk of severe COVID infection and death. Furthermore, older adults should take more caution.

Not just COVID, but given that winter season has arrived, people are now prone to common cold and flu infections. The poor air quality in major cities adds to the woe.

That said, wearing a well-fitted mask, maintaining social distance, avoiding outdoor activities and following proper hand hygiene are some of the best ways to protect yourself against illnesses and air pollutants.

Apart from taking necessary measures, you should also get your COVID shots and flu vaccines on time. Even though breakthrough infections are a huge possibility, you can still prevent severe infections and illnesses