Do Recent Covid Variants Present Unique Symptoms? Experts Share Insights.

What Should You Look Out For?

As we transition into autumn, there's talk of emerging Covid-19 variants. You might be curious whether we'll witness a similar spike in cases this season, akin to the previous years.

Health professionals remain uncertain about the course Covid will take. However, they emphasize staying updated on the latest variants, understanding their symptoms, and knowing preventive measures.

Henry Redel, M.D., an infectious disease authority at Saint Peter’s University Hospital, notes, “New variants will consistently appear, but none so far have proven more dangerous than those in the early phases of the pandemic.”

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At present, the EG.5 variant, also termed Eris, is responsible for approximately 20% of U.S. Covid cases, as highlighted by Dr. Redel. Originating from the widespread Omicron variant, its danger level appears moderate, yet preliminary findings suggest it might spread more easily, based on insights from Yale Medicine.

Another recent variant, BA.2.86, has been identified both in the U.S. and internationally. Its presence is relatively minimal, but it remains under surveillance. The CDC indicates that BA.2.86 could potentially infect individuals previously exposed to Covid or those vaccinated.

Vincent Covelli, M.D., an infectious disease expert at PlushCare, mentions, “As colder months approach, it's anticipated that more variants will surface, mirroring past trends.”

It's pivotal to recognize symptoms of prevalent strains like EG.5 and BA.2.86 and to stay informed on self-protection strategies.

The existing variants descend from Omicron, leading to familiar symptoms and disease intensity, states Brian Labus from the University of Nevada Las Vegas School of Public Health. While no specific symptoms are associated with these new strains, general Covid symptoms now resemble those of the flu. Fewer individuals report experiencing low oxygen saturation or breathlessness.

This change can be attributed to immunity gained from vaccinations and previous virus exposure.

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For a recap on Covid-19 symptoms as per the CDC:  

- Fever or chills  
- Nasal congestion  
- Runny nose  
- Cough  
- Body aches  
- Throat discomfort  
- Headaches  
- Nausea or vomiting  
- Diarrhea  
- Breathlessness  
- Loss of taste and smell sensation  

Prevention Measures

Despite similar symptomatology, newer Covid variants might be more contagious, warns Dr. Redel. Thus, it's vital to adopt protective measures, such as isolating when feeling unwell.


Vaccination remains essential. Dr. Covelli advises, "Consistent vaccination provides a crucial defense against severe reactions.”

Upcoming booster shots, expected by end of September, aim to counter the XBB.1.5 omicron offshoot. Even if it isn't prevalent currently, these shots should bolster defenses against new variants.


Should You Test If Symptomatic?
If symptomatic, consider a Covid test, either at home or a local center. The CDC offers an online tool to locate complimentary tests nearby.

A positive result or symptomatic presentation without testing calls for a five-day isolation, as per CDC guidelines.


Remember, the nature of Covid is evolutionary, and fresh variants will likely arise, Labus remarks. Future iterations might introduce novel symptoms.

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Labus adds, “Adapting is a viral survival strategy. As the virus persists, newer variants will invariably emerge.”