Nicola Sturgeon confirmed that Scotland now has over one hundred cases of the 'stealth omicron' sub-variant.
However it is thought that this number is expected to be a "significant underestimate of actual prevalence" as not all tests are or can be sequenced.
Despite rising cases of a new sub-variant, the FM said that it is "reasonable" that based on the data to "conclude that we are now through the worst of this wave of omicron" adding the situation is now "much more positive than it was at the turn of the year" thanks to a combination of vaccinations, targeted protective measures and the responsible reaction of the public.
The variant, also known as the BA.2 strain, was first identified in December 2021 has been spreading quickly around the world since.
Though experts are still studying the effects of this new version, a new report from the World Health Organisation (WHO) has confirmed that BA.2 is different from earlier mutations due to its cellular spike protein structure.
But here’s what we know about the symptoms of the new sub-variant so far...
What are the common symptoms of 'stealth omicron'?
'Stealth omicron' symptoms have been described as almost identical to those of the original omicron variant.
The symptoms of Omicron according to the ZOE Covid study are:
Dry/scratchy throat
Runny nose
Sneezing
Mild muscle aches
Fatigue
Some less common symptoms include:
- Fainting
- Congestion
- Brain fog
- Skin rashes
- Conjunctivitis
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Sleep paralysis
- Night sweats
- Dizziness
While BA.2 is still under investigation, the CDC have issued a warning about the BA.1 (omicron) strain, asking people to keep an eye out for pale, grey or blue-coloured skin, lips or nail beds which could indicate low levels of oxygen in the blood and require urgent medical attention.
What are two symptoms of Stealth Omicron that appear before you test positive?
One of the common symptoms of the 'stealth omicron' - much like the original variant - is vertigo or dizziness.
The NHS explained: "These may come and go throughout the day. If they are constant or very intense, you should inform your healthcare professional as they may want to do some further investigations."
Another common symptom which appears quite early if you're infected by the virus is fatigue. Dr Angelique Coetzee, the South African doctor who first alerted authorities to omicron back in November 2021 , has said that fatigue alongside muscle pains can be among the early signs of the variant.
These symptoms may appear as early as two days after being exposed to someone who has omicron.
However, symptoms can take longer to appear, even up to 14 days after exposure, which is why if you've been exposed to the virus, you should either continue to test regularly (every day) or self-isolate for 10 days - or seven if you meet the criteria to leave early.
