Which organs can be damaged by a mild infection of Omicron?

New Study on Omicron B.1.1.529 Variant

According to the study, even a mild infection of the disease can damage the body’s organs. For this, a total of 443 people aged 45 to 74 years with mild symptoms of SARS-CoV-2 infection were extensively screened. Mild or no symptoms have been reported in the infected people included in the study. Its result shows that in these infected, medium term organ damage was seen in comparison to the people who were not infected.

“Lung function tests showed a three percent reduction in lung volume and airway problems,” the study’s researchers said in a statement. In addition, there was an average reduction of 1 to 2 percent in the pumping power of the heart. While the level of protein in the blood increased by 41 percent, which tells about the stress on the heart.

Researchers found signs of ‘leg vein thrombosis’ (blood clots in the veins of the legs) two to three times more often and a decline of about two percent in kidney function. However, no ill effect was found on the brain function of the patients.

Scientific Facts About Omicron

Raphael Twerenbold, director of the Scientific Study Center, said, ‘This information is very important for us. Especially in the case of Omicron, which appears to be associated with mild symptoms. Stephen Blankenburg, Medical Director of the Heart and Vascular Center of the UK, said, ‘The results of the study help to understand the potential risks at an early stage so that the right steps can be taken in the treatment of patients.’

According to experts, the previous variants of the corona used to increase their numbers in the lower respiratory system, due to which the virus had a greater effect on the human lungs. But the new Omicron variant replicates in the upper respiratory system, which may cause less damage to the lungs. There are also no symptoms like shortness of breath and loss of ability to identify taste, smell. However, the absence of symptoms can accelerate the spread of the virus.

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A note on dates

This post reports a study from early 2022, when Omicron was spreading. Guidance on COVID-19 has changed since, and new variants and vaccines have followed. Ask your doctor or check the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare website for current advice. The practical steps below apply to any viral respiratory infection in an older adult.

What to do next

• Rest and drink fluids, and keep the home well ventilated.
• Check temperature and oxygen level (pulse oximeter) once or twice a day, and write the readings down; see pulse oximeter guide.
• Take only the medicines your doctor advises.
• Watch for warning signs: breathlessness, chest pain, confusion, bluish lips, a persistent fever or an oxygen reading that stays low (a figure of about 94 or below is commonly used as a reason to call a doctor, but follow your doctor's advice).
• Plan the recovery: gentle walking and breathing exercises, with rest as needed; see post-COVID and post-infection fatigue in seniors.
• Follow up if breathlessness, tiredness or palpitations continue after the illness.

Vaccines

Ask your doctor which vaccines suit your parent; see vaccines for older adults in India.

When to ask a professional

Older adults, and those with heart, lung, kidney or diabetes problems, should have a doctor review even a "mild" infection. See home oxygen for COVID and pneumonia recovery.