Coronavirus symptoms: How long does it take for Omicron symptoms to appear?

The newly discovered Omicron variant of COVID-19 is spreading at a rapid pace in different parts of the world, including India. The country reported 175 new cases of Omicron variant in the morning taking the total tally of people infected with this new strain to 1892. Although the symptoms of Omicron are believed to be milder than that of Delta, the rising cases have stirred fear and panic among people, raising concern over the third wave of the coronavirus. Yet it is too early to say anything about the complications related to Omicron infections and the effectiveness of the vaccines as the strain is relatively new and not much data is available on it. Looking at the current scenario, the best possible solution is to follow COVID norms and get vaccinated to reduce the risk of infection.

When infected with the new mutant variant, the individual experiences more or less the same symptoms as witnessed when infected with the original strain or the previously mutated virus. The first few symptoms of Omicron are mild fever, fatigue, scratchy throat and body pain. Loss of smell and taste, which was a common ailment during the infection with Delta variant is not associated with omicron. As far as, post-infection complication of the new variant of concern goes, no information on this matter is available till now. Researchers are still trying to gather more data on this new strain that originated in South Africa just over a month ago.

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With the relaxation of COVID norms, the movement of people has again started across the country. There is a risk of getting infected if you are regularly going out and not following COVID norms diligently. Once infected with COVID-19, a person may start showing symptoms within five to six days. In some cases, it may even take 14 days. However, a sick person starts infecting others from around two days before the onset of the symptoms and for up to 10 days after it. Even in case of Omicron, the symptoms can show up any time between 3 and 14 days of infection. As reported earlier, symptoms of Omicron do not appear faster than other variants.

If you have come in contact with anyone who has tested positive for COVID-19, immediately isolate yourself. Stay away from others for at least 10 days to reduce the risk of infection. In the meantime, get yourself tested. Even if you are vaccinated or have been following all the COVID norms, isolation is essential to protect your loved one from the risk of infection. If you witness any symptoms related to COVID-19 during the isolation period, contact your doctor to know the further course of action.

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There are several testing options available at present to confirm the COVID-19 infection. You can test at home with a rapid test purchased from a pharmacy as it can help with an instant result. But the result may not be accurate all the time depending on how you have carried out the entire process. For surety, we would recommend you to get an RT-PCR test at a lab. Lab test is more accurate but may take 48 hours to get the result.

With the drop in the temperature, there is a double threat of respiratory infections in the form of COVID and influenza. Both the conditions are related to the respiratory system and are caused by different viruses. If infected by both the situation can get worse as our body might find it harder to fight both viruses at once. So, it is best to avoid crowded places, wear a mask, maintain hygiene and get yourself vaccinated to cut down the risk of infection.