Symptoms Such as Heat Rash, Urticaria, and Frostbite Appear
[Asia Economy Reporter Yoon Seul-gi] Unusual skin symptoms are being discovered in COVID-19 Omicron variant patients in the United Kingdom.
On the 9th (local time), according to Mirror and others, the UK COVID-19 symptom research group ZOE reported that rashes have been confirmed on the skin of many Omicron-infected individuals. Currently, Omicron has overtaken the Delta variant as the dominant strain in the UK. Over 90% of new COVID-19 cases in the UK are Omicron infections.
ZOE categorized the so-called 'Omicron skin' types into three main types.
First, a bumpy and itchy rash similar to heat rash. It can appear on any part of the body but is mainly found on the elbows, hands, or feet. This symptom can last from several days to a few weeks.
Second, hives with honeycomb-shaped protrusions, which appear and disappear much faster than the first type.
Third, chilblain-like symptoms. Small bumps protruding on the skin are purple or red in color and are not itchy but rather cause a stinging sensation. This phenomenon was more commonly observed in young people infected with Omicron.
ZOE also reported that some Omicron-infected individuals showed only these skin symptoms without other symptoms.
According to the Turkish media Haberturk, Dr. Pelin Kartal, head of dermatology at a local general hospital, analyzed the UK ZOE data and said, "In the UK, 20% of Omicron-positive patients reported swelling and red rashes on the skin of the elbows, hands, or feet," adding, "These skin symptoms signal Omicron infection. If such symptoms appear, it is recommended to get a COVID-19 diagnostic test." As Omicron cases increase, common unique symptoms are being observed among infected individuals.
Previously, 'night sweats' were reported as a distinctive symptom of Omicron, drawing attention. In a briefing by the South African Department of Health last December, Dr. Unben Philei announced, "One definite symptom of Omicron is night sweats," followed by supporting statements from experts.
According to Fortune and others, Dr. Amir Khan of the UK's National Health Service (NHS) stated, "If you sweat so much at night that your bedding and clothes are soaked, it should be carefully considered a sign of Omicron infection." John Torres, a medical correspondent for NBC News in the US, also said, "Night sweating symptoms rarely appear in Omicron-infected patients."
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