Omicron Vs Delta: What’s the difference
The surge in the cases of omicron variants has raised questions on the possibility of an another wave of coronavirus and the effectiveness of the vaccines being administered.
Omicron, which is believed to be more transmissible than the previous variant, is likely to infect a large population in less time. The symptoms of this variant are milder as compared to the Delta variant. But as per experts, due to the high rate of transmissibility, it can soon become the dominant variant across the globe.
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The difference in the symptoms of Omicron and Delta
Delta and Omicron both are mutant variants of the original strain of the COVID-19, which originated in China in 2019. Delta was first identified in India in 2020 and later it led to the second wave of the coronavirus in the country claiming millions of lives, while cases of omicron variant were first reported from South Africa. The symptoms of both variants are different from each other. Experts reveal that fatigue, joint pain, cold and headaches are four common signs of omicron that are different from that of the Delta variant. Apart from these, loss of smell and taste, which were common signs of Delta, were hardly seen in the case of the Omicron.
Omicron might not lead to breathlessness
Last week, an AIIMS doctor suggested that Omicron might not lead to breathlessness like Delta or another previous variant of the COVID-19 because possibly the new variant multiplies in the throat instead of the respiratory system. He said that due to this, the impact of omicron infection is likely to be minimal on the lungs. It means that, unlike Delta infection in which a large group of the population was hospitalized and suffered from pneumonia, the same might not happen in the case of the new variant.
READ: Omicron-fuelled wave possible in Sri Lanka, Health Authorities warn
The effect of natural immunity and vaccine on Omicron
Experts believe that the Omicron variant can surpass the immunity provided by natural infection and vaccinations. The risk of breakthrough infection is higher in both cases. But till now nothing can be said without utmost surety. Omicron is a new variant and research is needed in the area to know more about this new variant. Vaccine manufacturing giants are testing their respective drugs to evaluate their effectiveness on the new vaccine.
How to stay safe
In the wake of the rising cases of coronavirus, it is best to take all necessary precautions to stay healthy and fit. Wearing a mask, maintaining proper hygiene and getting the vaccine is the best way to protect yourself from getting infected. (Times of India)
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