BA.2 omicron variant: 2 new COVID symptoms reported

An image as seen through a microscope shows a bright yellow circle at the center of the virus, surrounded by red crowns.

FILE - This 2020 electron microscope image made available by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases shows a Novel Coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 particle isolated from a patient, in a laboratory in Fort Detrick, Md. The coronavirus mutant widely known as stealth omicron is now causing more than a third of new omicron cases around the world. But scientists still don’t know how it could affect the future of the pandemic. (NIAID/NIH via AP, File)AP

By

The BA.2 COVID-19 variant, a subvariant of the omicron variant, can manifest different symptoms than the original strains, according to reports.

KREM 2 News reported health officials were seeing two additional symptoms with BA.2 – dizziness and fatigue. The symptoms come along with those reported by omicron patients such as sneezing, coughing and sore throat, along with other cold-like symptoms.

BA.2 – known as the “stealth” omicron for its ability to evade some tests – is believed to be about 30% more transmissible than the original variant but does not appear to be more severe. BA.2 has been blamed for a growing number of cases internationally but is not widespread in the U.S. despite being reported in all 50 states.

In the U.S., BA.2 caused about 4% of COVID cases for the week ending Feb. 19. And while getting BA.2 after infection from the original omicron strain (also known as BA.1) is possible, research indicates an earlier omicron infection seems to provide strong protection.

The Centers for Disease Control continues to recommend vaccinations as the best tool to fight COVID-19 and its variants. Vaccinations are available for those 5 years and older with boosters for people ages 12 and older.

You can see more prevention tips here.

If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.