Covid-19: Omicron May Be Milder, But Variant Can Still Lead To Long-Term Symptoms, Fauci Says

"Long Covid can happen no matter what virus variant occurs," Fauci told Spectrum News. "There's no evidence that there's any difference between Delta or Beta or now Omicron."

Fauci,  the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases and the Chief Medical Advisor to the President, added that "We should always be aware that when people get symptomatic infection - anywhere from 10 to up to 30 plus percent of people will go on to have persistence of symptoms."

"Long Covid" is also possible among those who have had mild cases, Fauci noted.

According to the Mayo Clinic, "COVID-19 symptoms can sometimes persist for months. The virus can damage the lungs, heart, and brain, which increases the risk of long-term health problems."

The Mayo Clinic has identified these symptoms that so-called "long haulers" may experience over time:

• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Cough
• Joint pain
• Chest pain
• Memory, concentration, or sleep problems
• Muscle pain or headache
• Fast or pounding heartbeat
• Loss of smell or taste
• Depression or anxiety
• Fever
• Dizziness when you stand
• Worsened symptoms after physical or mental activities

Those infected with COVID have had a wide range of symptoms reported – ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness. 

Symptoms may appear two to 14 days after exposure to the virus, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). 

Related stories:

• COVID-19: One Sign You May Have Omicron Could Show Up On Your Skin

• COVID-19: As Omicron Spreads, Two New Signs Emerge You May Be Infected With Virus

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