What Are the Symptoms of the Omicron COVID-19 Variant?

The symptoms of the Omicron COVID-19 variant are similar to other COVID-19 variants: fever, cough, shortness of breath, and muscle aches; however, there are fewer reports of significant loss of taste and smell with the Omicron variant.

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What Is The Omicron Variant?

The Omicron COVID-19 variant contains about 50 mutations, 30 of which are on the spike protein the coronavirus uses to attach to human cells. These mutations make the virus more contagious, but it is too early to tell if this is the case with Omicron. As of December 5th, the Omicron variant has been detected in 17 states. The map below depicts which states have already detected cases of the Omicron variant. 

The Omicron Variant in the U.S.

Scientists are racing to study the spread of the Omicron variant after an analysis of cases in South Africa indicated that it may be at least three times more likely to cause reinfection than previous variants. Researchers worry the Omicron variant may have the ability to evade immunity from prior infection, which is why it is spreading so fast.