Despite being declared a global pandemic in March 2020, COVID-19 continues to affect individuals worldwide in 2024, with new variants still emerging. Symptoms of COVID-19 have evolved over time and are now more similar to those of severe cold or flu, with occasional loss of taste and smell. While the current dominant strain, JN.1, tends to present milder symptoms, it can still cause serious health issues in some cases.
COVID-19 Variants and Their Development
The virus continues to mutate, leading to the emergence of new variants or subvariants. After the appearance of the Omicron variant in late 2021, the JN.1 variant has become the most prevalent worldwide in 2024. This ongoing evolution of the virus has made it more challenging to predict the exact course of the pandemic.
Common Symptoms of COVID-19 in 2024
According to Public Health France, the most common symptoms of COVID-19 in 2024 are similar to those seen with the Omicron variant and include:
Fatigue
Headaches
Fever
Cough
Runny nose
In some cases, people may experience more severe symptoms, especially those over 80, who may suffer from cognitive decline, frequent falls, or gastrointestinal issues. In emergency cases, severe heart problems and blood clots can also occur.
Specific Symptoms of Omicron Variant:
For the Omicron variant, the main symptoms identified by ZoeStudy include:
Runny nose
Headache
Moderate to severe fatigue
Sneezing
Sore throat
Duration of Symptoms
The average duration for COVID-19 symptoms is around 7 days, though it can vary from 3 to 10 days depending on the individual and the severity of the infection.
Prevention Measures
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends several strategies to reduce the risk of contracting COVID-19 and other viruses:
Frequent Handwashing: Wash hands regularly with soap and water or use an appropriate hand sanitizer.
Cover Coughs and Sneezes: Always cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or the crook of your elbow, followed by handwashing.
Social Distancing: Maintain at least one meter of distance from others, especially if they are coughing, sneezing, or showing signs of fever.
Avoid Touching Face: Refrain from touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
Avoid Direct Contact with Live Animals: If this is unavoidable, ensure you wash your hands afterward.
Proper Food Handling: Avoid consuming raw or undercooked animal products, and wash hands, surfaces, and utensils after use.
Seek Medical Care Promptly: If you experience fever, cough, or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately.
Conclusion
While COVID-19 symptoms have evolved over time and are now generally less severe, it's important to remain vigilant. Stay informed, practice prevention measures, and seek medical advice if you suspect you have contracted the virus. As the situation continues to evolve, staying up-to-date on the latest guidelines and recommendations is essential for protecting yourself and others.
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