New COVID Variant: Symptoms to Watch Out For
As the pandemic continues to ravage the world, new strains of COVID-19 continue to emerge. The latest variant, known as the Delta variant, was first identified in India in December 2020 and has caused widespread concern due to its higher infectivity rate and more severe symptoms. In this article, we will explore what the new COVID variant is, its symptoms, and how to protect yourself.
What is the Delta variant?
The Delta variant, also known as B.1.617.2, is a highly infectious strain of COVID-19 that has become dominant in many countries, particularly in the United Kingdom and the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Delta variant is about twice as transmissible as the original strain of COVID-19 and can cause more severe illness.
What are the Symptoms of the Delta variant?
The Delta variant has been noted to present with different symptoms from the original COVID-19 virus. Common symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, headache, and loss of smell or taste. However, some new symptoms that the Delta variant has been found to cause include severe stomach pain and diarrhea. Moreover, it is normal to experience fatigue, muscle aches, and other flu-like symptoms when infected with the Delta variant.
How to Protect Yourself
As with the original COVID-19 virus, the best way to protect yourself from the Delta variant is to continue practicing regular hand washing, physical distancing, and wearing a mask in public places. It is also essential to get vaccinated as soon as possible. According to the CDC, the currently available COVID-19 vaccines have been found to be effective against the Delta variant. The vaccines are also known to reduce the severity of symptoms and lower the risk of hospitalization and death.
Conclusion
While the world continues to fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, it is essential to remain vigilant and informed about new strains of the virus. The Delta variant is highly contagious and can cause severe illness, but with proper precautions and vaccination, we can reduce the spread of the virus and protect ourselves and our communities. Knowing the symptoms of the Delta variant is crucial in identifying early infections and seeking prompt medical attention. Let us all continue to do our part in stopping the spread of the virus and finding a way out of this pandemic.
