'Unusual' Omicron symptom identified as Covid infections reach record highs

A new, unusual symptom of the Omicron Covid-variant has been added to the list, according to a coronavirus tracker app.

After a number of people with the virus variant reporting problems with their ears, ear pain has now be listed as a sign of infection.

Many of those infected with Omicron have been complaining of ringing in their ears, leading to the ZOE Covid Study app now including the sign in their weekly release.

It comes as cases of Covid reach record highs with 4.9million people across the UK infected, according to the latest ONS data.

Previously, ear pain was noted in some people with the variant but has only now been recognised as a common symptom, reports The Daily Star.

Ear pain has now been listed as a symptom of the Omicron Covid-variant. (Getty)

Last year, a study by A team of Stanford University experts and Dr Konstantina Stankovic, found that the Omicron variant could cause problems with the ear.

The study reported symptoms including severe earache, ear numbness, and even temporary hearing loss, which can also continue even after the infection has passed.

Dr Stankovic also revealed that these symptoms can also appear in those fully-vaccinated.

Speaking to the Times Now News Portal, Dr Stankovic said: “Pain is often associated with ringing in the ears. Surprisingly, these symptoms, although more rarely, can also appear in patients who have been vaccinated with a full course."

She also advised those with hearing loss, ringing in your ears and dizziness to not dismiss these symptoms and still take a test.

Brits can no longer have testing kits for free after the scheme was stopped, with those looking to test having to buy from local pharmacies or online.

Covid infection levels have recently hit a record high across Scotland and the UK.

Some 4.9 million people in the UK are estimated to have had Covid-19 in the week ending March 2, up from 4.3 million in the previous week, the Office for National Statistics said.

The record highs come after experts warned that at such levels anyone in the population who can catch Covid is likely to get it.

Full list of top 20 Omicron symptoms

Listed by prevalence per the ZOE COVID app

1. Runny nose
2. Headache
3. Any fatigue
4. Sneezing
5. Sore throat
6. Persistent cough
7. Hoarse voice
8. Other
9. Chills or shivers
10. Fever
11. Dizzy/light headed
12. Brain fog
13. Altered smell
14. Eye soreness
15. Unusual muscle pains
16. Skipped meals
17. Loss of smell
18. Chest pain
19. Swollen glands
20. Feeling down

Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond - Sign up to our daily newsletter here.