Doctors say Delta variant has different symptoms from original COVID-19 strain

BIRMINGHAM, Alabama (WBRC) – Doctors say symptoms of the Delta variant may appear a little different from those of the original COVID-19 strain.

Symptoms can overlap, making it hard to tell which variation you have, and can also be very similar to colds or allergies.

“Headache, fever, shortness of breath, these are the things that people are going to have commonly, but what we are seeing with the Delta variant so far is that you are a little more likely to have pain in your head. throat, more likely to have sinus congestion and a little more likely to have a runny nose, ”said Dr. Wesley Willeford, medical director of disease control for the Jefferson County Department of Health.

Another symptom of the Delta variant is excessive sneezing, but a telltale sign, long considered a feature of the virus, is less common with the delta variant.

“We haven’t seen as much loss of taste or smell as we did before with the original variety. That being said, it’s still possible, it’s just that we don’t see it that often, ”Dr Willeford said.

He said more data is needed to determine which symptoms are specific to the Delta variant.

He added that just two months ago we weren’t seeing as many cases of COVID, but now it is rapidly circulating in the community.

Thus, the chances of you coming into contact with the virus are much greater.

“So if you have any symptoms that are out of the ordinary, I think the first thing you should do is think about getting a COVID-19 test, and definitely if you have a fever or more noticeable symptoms, most of you should definitely take a COVID-19 test and try to avoid being with other people to prevent the spread of COVID-19, ”said Dr Willeford.

He said it can also be a little difficult to tell if you have COVID-19, or any of its variants, if you are fully vaccinated.

Keep in mind that cases of rupture can occur.

So if you’re not feeling well, Dr Willeford said it’s best to be cautious and get tested for COVID.

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