Although it is too soon to be certain, many doctors believe that the long-term effects of the omicron virus variant could be significant.
COVID-19 is often diagnosed as long-term COVID many weeks after the initial bout. Maria Van Kerkhove, a representative of the World Health Organization, stated that long-term effects usually appear 90 days after the symptoms go away.
Some estimates indicate that more than a third (or even more) of COVID-19 victims will experience symptoms of long COVID. The symptoms include fatigue, brain fog and shortness of breath. Although it is more common if you have been hospitalized for COVID-19, research has shown that the lingering illness can occur even after mild infections. Although the variant causes less severe illness than the coronavirus delta, it still overwhelms hospitals.
Van Kerkhove stated that she hasn’t seen any research suggesting that the proportion of COVID-19 patients who receive long COVID will be affected by the omicron variant.
Stanford University's Dr. Linda Geng, who directs one of many long COVID clinics, stated that although she cannot be certain, it is possible to see a new wave.
Geng stated, "We must be cautious and very careful. We have to be prepared."
Scientists are trying to unravel the mystery of the condition. There are some theories. This could be an autoimmune disorder. The disabling symptoms could be caused by tiny microclots. Latent viruses may have been reactivated.
Scientists are also investigating whether vaccines might be the solution. Yale University researchers are investigating whether vaccinations might be able to reduce the severity of COVID. Two other studies have shown that getting vaccinated before you get COVID-19 may help to prevent or reduce the severity of this lingering disease.
