What Happens When Infected with Both Delta and Omicron COVID-19 Variants?
Explore the dynamics of simultaneous infection with Delta and Omicron COVID-19 variants and what it means for your health.
Virologists warn that simultaneous presence of different COVID-19 variants is unlikely to be peaceful. A fierce competition ensues between the strains, with one inevitably outcompeting the other.
The latest concern revolves around the new Omicron variant, which has already spread globally. It often presents symptoms resembling fatigue and headaches, making it easy to overlook, and shows resilience even in individuals with existing antibodies.
Meanwhile, the Delta variant, known for its pronounced cold-like symptoms, remains persistent worldwide. Experts note that Delta has adapted well to various environments, enabling it to dominate other COVID-19 variants in many regions.
Scientists predict that soon we will face challenges from multiple variants simultaneously. Co-infection with two opposing variants is possible.
However, severe outcomes from such 'double or triple hits' are unlikely, as one variant tends to quickly suppress the other. Identifying the specific variant infecting a patient requires laboratory testing.
"Simultaneous infection with multiple variants can occur. The replication speed of each virus within the host may differ, meaning it doesn't matter if a person is infected with one, two, or three variants. One will eventually dominate. For example, Omicron may have superior abilities to spread and replicate faster," explains epidemiologist Kamil Hafizov from the National Health Agency.
- What causes the sore throat commonly reported by Omicron-infected individuals?
Currently, medical professionals agree that Omicron is more contagious but generally causes milder symptoms compared to Delta, which often leads to a range of uncomfortable signs.
Interestingly, most Omicron cases have been reported among individuals under 40, many of whom have previously had COVID-19. Some researchers suggest this pattern may relate to genetic or demographic factors observed in certain populations.
"In regions where average life expectancy is around 49 years, data primarily reflects younger patients, many of whom had prior infections. These findings may not directly apply to older populations in Europe or North America, especially unvaccinated individuals," the expert adds.
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