Understanding the Latest Symptoms and Risks of New COVID-19 Variants
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve, new viral variants arise causing a spike in cases and putting strain on healthcare systems. Being informed on the symptoms of new covid strains can help individuals stay vigilant and protect themselves and others.
Omicron Variants BA.4 and BA.5
The Omicron variant has spawned several subvariants, most notably BA.4 and BA.5 which have overtaken earlier Omicron strains. These contagious sublineages have concerning mutations that evade immunity.
Most Common Symptoms
Those infected with BA.4 and BA.5 may experience:
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Fatigue and body aches
- Sore throat
- Fever
- Persistent cough
- Night sweats
- Nausea
Symptoms tend to be more flu-like compared to earlier COVID variants. Loss of taste and smell is less common.
At-Risk Groups
Unvaccinated individuals and those who haven't had a booster shot are most vulnerable. But even boosted individuals can get infected, underscoring the need for updated vaccines.
Omicron Subvariants BQ.1 and BQ.1.1
The BQ.1 and BQ.1.1 subvariants contain mutations making them the most antibody-evasive strains yet. Experts believe they may soon dominate cases globally.
Expected Symptoms
Symptoms may closely resemble BA.4 and BA.5 infections including:
- Runny or congested nose
- Headache and fatigue
- Sore throat
- Fever
- Persistent cough
- Nausea
Loss of taste and smell seems rare. Those infected may experience flu-like illness of varying severity.
Groups at Risk
Boosted individuals have significant protection against severe disease but can still get infected. Unvaccinated elderly and immunocompromised patients are very vulnerable if infected.
Understanding Long COVID Symptoms
Many COVID patients suffer from post-viral complications like long COVID - debilitating symptoms lasting weeks or months after recovery from acute infection including:
- Fatigue or brain fog
- Shortness of breath
- Heart palpitations
- Dizziness
- Digestive issues
- Insomnia
Patients with long COVID need supportive treatment and slow progression back to normal activity levels.
How New Variants Impact Vaccine Efficacy
The continual emergence of new SARS-CoV-2 variants able to evade existing immunity will require development of updated vaccines. Let’s compare vaccine effectiveness against newer variants:
Omicron BA.4 and BA.5
- 2-3 doses provides protection against severe illness for most
- More breakthrough asymptomatic cases in those 6+ months from last dose
- 4th booster restores protection lost since last shot
- Future Omicron boosters in development will be beneficial
BQ.1 and BQ.1.1
- Expected to evade immunity from current shots
- Multiple COVID exposures plus vaccination offers best protection
- Boosters still shield against worst outcomes
- Updated boosters targeting new strains in progress
Frequent boosters may be needed going forward to broaden immune defenses over time as the virus evolves.
Safeguarding Yourself and Community Against New COVID Strains
Here are key tips to stay protected:
Get All Recommended Vaccine Doses
Stay up to date on primary shots plus boosters matched to currently circulating variants. Those 50+ may consider additional boosters to strengthen immunity against breakthrough infections.
Consider Continued Use of Masks
Well-fitting, high filtration masks like N95s, KN95s or KF94s provide strong source control and personal protection against highly contagious variants.
Improve Indoor Air Quality Where Possible
Consider portable HEPA air cleaners with high CADR ratings to filter aerosols, improve ventilation or install MERV 13 filters in home HVAC systems.
Test Frequently If Exposed or Symptomatic
Testing upon early symptoms allows prompt isolation and treatment if infected. At-home rapid tests are convenient, allowing quick detection of infectiousness.
Isolate When Sick
Staying home when unwell, testing negative, and waiting 24 hours fever-free without medication before ending isolation protects contacts from infection.
Diligently following public health advice on emerging COVID-19 variants gives individuals the agency to lower personal risk and reduce community transmission as the pandemic persists towards an endemic state.
FAQs
What are the most common symptoms of BA.4 and BA.5?
Runny nose, fatigue, sore throat, fever, cough, night sweats and nausea are often reported. Loss of taste and smell is less common.
Are the vaccines effective against new variants like BQ.1?
Current vaccines still provide protection against severe disease but may allow more breakthrough mild and asymptomatic infections from newer antigenically distinct variants.
How long do long COVID symptoms typically last?
Most long COVID patients see improvement by 12 months but a minority continue experiencing debilitating symptoms for longer periods.
What percentage need hospitalization for new COVID strains?
Hospitalization rates are significantly lower compared to early pandemic strains, but unvaccinated, elderly, and immunocompromised patients are still at highest risk of severe disease.
Should I wear a mask even if not mandated?
Continued mask usage provides excellent source control and personal protection against highly contagious variants in indoor public spaces, especially high-filtration respirators like N95s, KN95s or KF94s.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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