Distinguishing COVID-19 Caused by Omicron vs. Delta

Analysis of self-reported outcomes confirms that, compared with the SARS-CoV-2 Delta variant, Omicron causes a different constellation of symptoms as well as shorter, milder disease.

In late 2021, the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant replaced the Delta variant in most countries. Although subjective experience indicated less-severe disease with Omicron than Delta, a robust comparison between the two variants has been lacking. In a prospective observational study, U.K. researchers analyzed data from 63,000 community-dwelling individuals who developed PCR- or rapid antigen-test–confirmed COVID-19 despite vaccination with two or three doses, and who regularly self-reported their symptoms using a smartphone app. In all, 4990 participants infected during Delta prevalence (June–November 2021) and 4990 infected during Omicron prevalence (December 2021–January 2022) were matched 1:1 regarding age, sex, and vaccination status.

Of the mo…

Reviewing Author

Thomas Glück, MD

Disclosures

Editorial BoardsConsilium Infectiorum by InfectoPharm, Infection

Thomas Glück, MD

Disclosures

Editorial BoardsConsilium Infectiorum by InfectoPharm, Infection

Distinguishing COVID-19 Caused by Omicron vs. Delta

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Reviewing Author