Here’s everything you need to know about the new Omicron Variant BA.5

Health

Published: 2022-07-17 16:01

Last Updated: 2024-03-18 11:30


Credit: CNN
Credit: CNN

Although we are constantly bombarded with COVID-19 updates and new variants, the rise of the Omicron variant, BA.5, is something to look out for.

This Omicron subvariant BA.5 is the most contagious so far, causing a rise in COVID-19 cases. In which, BA.5, is affecting people who previously had contracted the coronavirus (including previous versions of Omicron). Unfortunately, the new variant is eluding immunity from the vaccines.

However, the vaccines are still keeping the severe symptoms and deaths under control. This is due to a research that shows that this new variant does not decrease the protection against severe symptoms in comparison to earlier versions of Omicron.

The symptoms of this variant do not differ from previous symptoms of the virus such as a sore throat, runny nose, and fatigue. Some people with Omicron have reported an unusual new symptom of COVID which is back pain. In addition to a decrease in what was the most common symptom of the loss of taste or smell which was more evident in older strains of the variant.

The BA.5 is extremely contagious and therefore, more people will get reinfected with the coronavirus.

Even if the infections were mild, it may increase the risk of complications and long-term coronavirus symptoms.

Dr. Eric Topol told CNN that changes in the BA.5 may explain why people are reporting longer time to test negative compared to sicknesses with previous Omicron sub variants.

If you have any of these symptoms or are wondering if it’s COVID-19, it is essential to stay at home and take a test in order to protect yourself and others who are more vulnerable to cases of severe COVID.