Introduction
As virus experts, we know that early signs of infection can be difficult to detect. But, with the right knowledge and understanding, you can be better prepared to recognize the signs and take the necessary steps to protect yourself and those around you. In this article, we will discuss the early signs of infection, what to look for, and how to take action if you suspect you may have been exposed. We will also provide some tips on what to eat and what to avoid to help reduce your risk of infection. So, if you want to stay informed and stay safe, read on to learn more about the early signs of infection.
Early Signs of Infection, Say Virus Experts — Eat This Not That
As the world continues to grapple with the novel coronavirus pandemic, experts are warning that early signs of infection can be easy to miss. Knowing the signs and symptoms of infection can help you take the necessary steps to protect yourself and those around you.
What Are the Early Signs of Infection?
The most common early signs of infection include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Other symptoms may include chills, body aches, sore throat, headache, loss of taste or smell, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. It is important to note that some people may not experience any symptoms at all.
What Should I Do If I Experience Early Signs of Infection?
If you experience any of the early signs of infection, it is important to take the necessary steps to protect yourself and those around you. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that you stay home, practice social distancing, and wear a face covering when in public. Additionally, you should contact your healthcare provider for further guidance.
What Foods Should I Eat to Help Prevent Infection?
Eating a healthy, balanced diet is important for overall health and can help to boost your immune system. Foods that are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants can help to protect your body from infection. Some of the best foods to eat to help prevent infection include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
Conclusion
It is important to be aware of the early signs of infection and take the necessary steps to protect yourself and those around you. Eating a healthy, balanced diet can help to boost your immune system and protect your body from infection. If you experience any of the early signs of infection, contact your healthcare provider for further guidance.
According to the CDC, the Omicron variant remains the most dominant variant of COVID-19 in the United States, and although cases are going down, in many states there are still rampant infections. While the symptoms of Omicron can, for some people, mimic a bad cold and are considered fairly mild compared to previous variants, for other people, particularly unvaccinated people, Omicron can be quite brutal. “This Omicron variant is acting more like a normal coronavirus, such as those that cause the common cold,” says NYU Langone Health infectious diseases physician Dr. Stephanie Sterling to Time. Here are five early signs you might have Omicron, according to experts. Read on to find out more—and to ensure your health and the health of others, don’t miss these Sure Signs COVID is Hurting You—Even After a Negative Test.
A sore throat is one of the most common early signs of Omicron, according to Chicago Department of Public Health Commissioner Dr. Allison Arwady. “Especially in people who we’re seeing these more mild breakthrough infections, we are definitely seeing sore throat be a predictor in that group,” says Dr. Arwady. “Even if it’s a sore throat, no matter what it is, I’ve told my own staff this, it’s what I do myself… if you are sick, even a little bit sick, stay home. More true than ever right now because sick, even a little bit sick, until proven otherwise with a test — that’s COVID. That’s how we treat it, that’s how you should treat it.”
A persistent cough is another common symptom of the Omicron variant, reflecting how symptoms can be similar to a bad cold. “Cough and fatigue also continue to be common symptoms for people with Omicron,” says Michigan Medicine expert Laraine Washer, M.D. “There are reports that upper respiratory symptoms are more prominent with Omicron than lower respiratory symptoms like cough in otherwise healthy vaccinated people.”
RELATED: Never Do This After Age 60, Experts Warn
Congestion is another frequent symptom of Omicron, according to Dr. Washer. “For many people, especially those who are vaccinated and otherwise healthy, Omicron does appear to have relatively mild symptoms, including upper respiratory or cold-like symptoms like a runny nose congestion, sneezing, and sore throat—which is relatively common—and headaches,” Dr. Washer says.
RELATED: Most People Get Alzheimer’s This Way, Experts Say
“The classic symptoms of fever, cough and loss of smell were slightly less frequent with Delta than with Alpha, and the cold-like symptoms…became more common,” says genetic epidemiologist Tim Spector, founder of health company ZOE which runs a COVID-19 symptom tracking app. “Omicron has really just increased that rather subtle change.”
RELATED: The #1 Cause of Subcutaneous Fat, Say Experts
While fatigue is a well-known symptom of long COVID, it is also a strong indicator of Omicron infection. “The reports show that patients in South Africa—many of whom were young—have had severe fatigue, but no loss of taste or smell,” said Yale Medicine pulmonologist Lauren Ferrante, MD.
RELATED: I’m a Doctor and Here’s the #1 Sign You Have Heart Disease
Follow the public health fundamentals and help end this pandemic, no matter where you live—get vaccinated or boosted ASAP; if you live in an area with low vaccination rates, wear an N95 face mask, don’t travel, social distance, avoid large crowds, don’t go indoors with people you’re not sheltering with (especially in bars), practice good hand hygiene, and to live your healthiest life, don’t miss this life-saving advice I’m a Doctor and Here’s the #1 Sign You Have Cancer