The Delta variant emerged as a strain of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. It swiftly gained global dominance due to its increased transmissibility compared to earlier forms. This variant altered the typical presentation of symptoms for many individuals.
Most Common Symptoms of the Delta Variant
People infected with the Delta variant frequently reported symptoms resembling a severe cold or upper respiratory infection. These included a sore throat, a runny nose, and headaches. These symptoms often appeared first, leading some to mistake their illness for seasonal allergies or a common cold.
Fever was also a common symptom with the Delta variant, often presenting as a low-grade temperature. A cough could still be present, though less common than with earlier strains. Other reported symptoms included fatigue and muscle aches.
How Delta Symptoms Differed from Original COVID-19
The Delta variant showed a shift in symptom prevalence compared to the original SARS-CoV-2 strain. Loss of taste and smell, hallmark indicators of the original virus, were less frequently reported with Delta infections.
The initial strain of COVID-19 was often characterized by fever, a persistent cough, and shortness of breath. The Delta variant more often presented with symptoms akin to a head cold, such as a runny nose, sore throat, and headache. This distinction sometimes made it harder to recognize a Delta infection without testing.
Symptoms in Children
Symptoms of the Delta variant in children generally mirrored those seen in adults. Pediatric cases commonly included fever, headaches, a sore throat, and upper respiratory tract symptoms like a runny or stuffy nose.
Children could also experience fatigue and cough. While most cases in children were mild, some instances required hospitalization. Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C), a serious complication, could also develop weeks after infection, characterized by symptoms like rash, abdominal pain, and persistent fever.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Seek immediate medical attention for any COVID-19 infection, including the Delta variant, if you experience emergency warning signs. These include trouble breathing or persistent pain or pressure in the chest. A new onset of confusion or an inability to wake or stay awake also warrants urgent care. If skin, lips, or nail beds appear pale, gray, or blue, seek emergency medical help.