"Just a Cold?" Omicron Spreads Rapidly When Ignored... Experts Advise "Get Tested for COVID-19"

On the 18th (local time), thousands of citizens marched in protest against the COVID-19 lockdown measures in central London, UK. [Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Hwang Sumi] Overseas infectious disease experts have argued that even if Omicron symptoms appear mild and resemble common cold symptoms, a COVID-19 test should still be conducted.

According to The Guardian on the 16th (local time), Professor Tim Spector, a genetic epidemiology professor at King's College London, explained Omicron symptoms during an appearance on BBC Radio the previous day and made this statement.

Professor Spector said, "As recent reports show, most Omicron symptoms are mild," and explained, "After investigating about 1,000 confirmed Omicron cases, symptoms such as runny nose, headache, fatigue, sneezing, and sore throat were observed."

He added, "There is a risk that Omicron may be regarded as a mild cold," emphasizing, "People with cold symptoms should also get tested for COVID-19."

Earlier, on the 10th, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention analyzed 43 Omicron cases in the U.S. and reported that the most common symptoms were cough, fatigue, runny nose, and congestion.

However, they noted that ongoing research suggests certain variants may cause different symptoms.

In fact, early studies indicate that Omicron is more transmissible than Delta but tends to cause relatively less severe symptoms. However, little is yet known about how Omicron affects individuals depending on factors such as age, vaccination status, and health condition.

Professor Spector emphasized, "Especially in London, where Omicron cases are rapidly increasing, those experiencing cold symptoms are much more likely to have COVID-19," and urged, "(Those with symptoms) should stay at home."

He added, "The doubling phenomenon due to Omicron is occurring every two and a half days. Omicron is already the dominant strain in London," and "Omicron will become the dominant strain in almost all regions."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.