Understanding Symptoms of New COVID-19 Variants
As the COVID-19 pandemic progresses, new viral variants arise through mutations. Some create changes in transmissibility, disease severity, and even the symptoms someone infected may experience. Staying updated on prominent strains and their associated signs can help prompt testing and care if needed.
Tracking Symptoms of Current Variants
In America, the ERIS variant became dominant in late 2022 into early 2023, accounting for over 75% of U.S. COVID cases. The BA.5 Omicron subvariant also continues circulating. Understanding both can help recognize infection.
ERIS Variant Symptoms
The ERIS variant derived from the BA.2 Omicron strain. Common symptoms include:
- Cough
- Congestion / runny nose
- Sore throat
- Fatigue / body aches
- Fever
- Headache
However, many report cold/flu-like indicators. Monitoring any new respiratory or viral symptoms is wise.
BA.5 Subvariant Symptoms
BA.5 produces symptoms like:
- Fever
- Chills
- Sore throat
- Congestion
- Muscle / joint pain
- Cough
- Night sweats
- Nausea
STRIVE data noted BA.5 may disproportionately cause loss of smell/taste versus earlier variants.
Future Variant Concerns
Viral mutations will persist, requiring ongoing tracking. Future strains could potentially differ in:
- Infectiousness - Spreading easier or quicker
- Disease severity - Causing worse or milder illness
- Symptoms - Featuring atypical indicators
- Immune evasion - Reinfecting those with prior immunity
Global genomic sequencing helps rapidly identify and follow emerging variants of interest and concern.
How Variants Impact COVID-19 Symptom Timelines
Beyond possible differences in symptoms by strain, COVID can also vary substantially person-to-person in its exact timeline and symptom progression.
Average COVID Symptom Onset
Symptoms typically develop 4-5 days after coronavirus exposure but can begin as soon as 2 days or take up to 14 days post-infection.
Day-By-Day Symptom Breakdown
Here is how symptoms often emerge day-by-day, on average, though individual experiences differ:
Days 1-2
- Fatigue
- Skin tingling
- Light cough
- Sore/scratchy throat
- Low-grade fever
Days 3-5
- Cough worsens
- Fever intensifies
- Shortness of breath
- Headache, sinus pain
- Body/muscle aches
Days 6-8
- Potential peak in symptoms
- Loss of smell/taste for some
- Chest tightness
- Headache, body aches grow severe
Days 9-12+
- Gradual symptom easing for most
- Fatigue/cough may persist longer
- Potential complication risk window
Again, timelines and intensity vary individually - some develop milder illness recovering quickly, others severe symptoms lasting weeks. Monitoring progress informs care decisions.
Red Flag Symptoms Requiring Urgent COVID Evaluation
While most COVID cases involve relatively mild-moderate flu-like symptoms, certain "red flag" indicators require prompt assessment to prevent complications.
Shortness of Breath/Hypoxia
Labored, rapid breathing coupled with oxygen saturation under 92% signals possible pneumonia or acute respiratory distress requiring hospital-level treatment like:
- Oxygen therapy
- Steroids
- Antivirals
High Fever Lasting Days
A very high fever not responding to antipyretics can accompany disease progression into the lungs or other concerning impacts. Alongside other serious symptoms, immediate treatment helps avoid lasting effects.
Confusion/Altered Mental Status
If someone appears confused, excessively drowsy/lethargic, hard to rouse, or acting oddly, it may indicate oxygen deprivation or another complication. Steroids, hydration, oxygen via mask/cannula, or even mechanical ventilation may assist recovery.
Chest Pain
While chest tightness commonly occurs with COVID, acute pain raises alarm for a possible heart or lung issue. Monitoring cardiac enzymes and imaging scans check for emerging problems like blood clots, heart inflammation, pneumonia, or pneumothorax requiring rapid care.
Bottom line - don't ignore symptoms signaling possible escalation into severe COVID illness - call a doctor or visit the ER.
Long COVID Symptoms
Finally, some people experience symptoms lasting weeks or months after the initial COVID infection clears, called Post-Acute Sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC) or simply "long COVID." Hallmarks include:
- Debilitating fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- "Brain fog" cognition troubles
- Body aches
- Heart palpitations
- Issues like sinus congestion, headaches, dizziness
Post-viral illness clinics assist evaluation and rehabilitation. Researchers actively investigate long COVID's mechanisms aiming to develop treatments.
In summary, staying updated on COVID variant symptoms empowers recognizing possible infection and seeking timely care when appropriate. Consult your doctor regarding any questions or concerns.
FAQs
What are the most common symptoms of the ERIS COVID variant?
The ERIS variant often causes cold/flu symptoms like cough, congestion, sore throat, fatigue, body aches, headaches, and fever. Many cases seem to resemble a regular cold or respiratory infection.
How long after COVID exposure do symptoms start?
On average, COVID symptoms tend to begin around 4-5 days after getting infected by the virus. However, onset can occur anywhere from 2 to 14 days post-exposure, highlighting a wide range.
What COVID symptoms require emergency care?
Shortness of breath, high fever not responding to medications, mental confusion, chest pain, and very low oxygen levels are "red flag" indicators of possible serious COVID progression needing urgent evaluation. Calling 911 or going to the ER is vital.
Can COVID symptoms last for months?
Yes, some people deal with fatigue, breathing issues, neurological problems, and other persistent symptoms for weeks or months after COVID infection, termed "long COVID." Specialized clinics offer rehabilitation to help regain strength and function.
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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