As I’ve been really sick the past week and with the new omicron covid variant, I figured I would write about this and help people stay healthy and well. I am not a medical professional, but I just want to make people more aware to help stop the spread of covid and common seasonal viruses
What we know about the omicron variant of covid:
The omicron variant came from South Africa, it was reported on the 24th of November and is quickly spreading, there are now cases in Ontario. Experts believe there are at least 50 mutations on the new variant, with 32 mutations that spike protein, the part of the virus that enters human cells. Currently, there is not enough known about it, the WHO has said the global risk of the omicron variant is ‘very high”.
How to protect yourself from covid and the common cold
-Maintain physical distance
-Get vaccinated
-Wear a mask when out, especially when physically distancing (make sure the mask is well fitted and worn properly will not prevent covid but help stop the spread of it)
-Choose open, well-ventilated spaces over closed ones. Open a window if indoors.
-Clean your hands often. Use soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand rub.
-Cover your mouth and nose with your bent elbow or a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
-Stay home and isolate if you feel unwell and stay away from other people who are sick
When you should see a doctor:
-If symptoms last for more than 10 days
-If symptoms are severe or unusual
-If your child is younger than 3 months of age and has a fever or is lethargic
What’s the difference between a cold, flu, and covid?
The common cold symptoms:
-Symptoms are gradual
-Nasal congestion
-Sneezing
-Coughing
-A sore throat
-A headache
-Dehydration
-Fatigue
-Body aches
-A low-grade fever
-Loss of appetite
The flu symptoms:
-Symptoms are abrupt
-Fever and chills
-Sore throat
-Runny or stuffy nose
-Muscles or body aches
-Headaches
-Fatigue
-Some people experience vomiting and diarrhea but is more common in children than adults
Covid-19 symptoms:
Most common symptoms:
-Fever
-Cough
-Tiredness
-Loss of taste or smell
Less common symptoms:
-Sore throat
-Headaches
-Ache and pains
-Diarrhea
-A rash on the skin, or discoloration of fingers or toes
-Red or irritated eyes
More serious symptoms:
-Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
-Loss of speech or mobility, or confusion