Is the Omicron Variant Targeting Younger Populations? 

Omicron is the latest strain of the novel coronavirus that’s been sweeping the world for three years now. While the symptoms of Omicron are similar to its predecessors, it’s unique in several ways. One of these is how it’s affecting younger populations more than previous variants.

Let’s look at how and why Omicron is targeting younger populations and what we can do about it.

Why is Omicron Targeting Younger Populations?

The first cases of Omicron were diagnosed in the United States on December 1, 2021. Before that, cases were popping up in South Africa and other parts of the world in early November. There’s still a lot that we don’t know about Omicron, but we know a few things with certainty.

• Omicron isn’t as deadly

Fortunately, Omicron has proven less deadly and severe than Delta and other variants. It doesn’t affect the immune system in the same way that other variants do, and its effects are much less severe. However, it can still be life-threatening when combined with pre-existing conditions. The elderly, in particular, are more prone to passing away from complications caused by Omicron.

• Omicron is more contagious

While it isn’t as deadly, Omicron has a higher viral load than other variants, which is more contagious. This is especially true in younger populations. Younger folks often don’t feel the effects of Omicron, which is why they’re more likely to spread it to others.

• Younger populations are spreading Omicron

Because of how mild the symptoms of Omicron are, younger populations are likely to be unaware that they have it. The symptoms of Omicron are similar to other forms of Covid; they’re just not as obvious.

Young, vaccinated people, in particular, should be extra vigilant against Omicron. The Covid vaccine hasn’t been proven to prevent Omicron, but it significantly reduces the potential symptoms and effects. The combination of how mild the symptoms of Omicron are and how contagious it is is why younger populations are more prone to getting and spreading it.

When and How Should I Get Tested for Omicron?

If you feel any of the signature signs of Covid: fatigue, cough, fever, sneezing, sore throat, headache, or a runny nose, you should be responsible and get tested for Covid. Drip Hydration offers a variety of options for in-home Covid testing, including rapid PCR, standard PCR, and rapid antigen testing.

Being aware of your body and responsibly testing, regardless of vaccination status, is the only way to stop the spread of the Omicron variant in younger populations.

• What We Know About The New Covid Omicron Variant And How To Protect Yourself
• What are Known Symptoms of the Covid Omicron Variant?
• Is the Omicron Variant Targeting Younger Populations?
• Which COVID Tests Can Detect The COVID Omicron Variant
• What Do The Experts Say About Covid Ending?
• Covid-19 Timeline: How Long It Lasts & What Symptoms To Expect