The first symptom of omicron, according to doctors

“What is the telltale symptom of the virus?” is one of the most frequent questions people ask after being exposed to COVID-19, particularly to the new omicron variant.

A sore throat is the most frequently reported first symptom of the omicron variant, according to Chicago Department of Public Health Commissioner, Allison Arwady.

"Especially in people who we're seeing these more mild breakthrough infections, we are definitely seeing sore throat be a predictor in that group," said Arwady. People who have flu-like or cold-like symptoms should assume they have COVID-19 "until proven otherwise," she added.

"Even if it's a sore throat, no matter what it is," she said. "I've told my own staff this, it's what I do myself... if you are sick, even a little bit sick, stay home. More true than ever right now because sick, even a little bit sick, until proven otherwise with a test—that's COVID. That's how we treat it, that's how you should treat it."

Other symptoms

Cough, congestion, runny nose, and fatigue appear to be symptoms of an omicron infection, Dr. Katherine Poehling, a virology specialist, told NBC News. Unlike the delta variant, there is no loss of smell or taste with omicron.

"They may only feel like they have a cold," said Arwady. "That's good because they're not getting seriously sick, they're not threatening the healthcare system, but it's certainly of some concern because they do have the potential to transmit to others."

The commissioner added that unvaccinated people have the most severe symptoms.

General COVID-19 symptoms, according to CDC.

• Fever or chills
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Cough
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Diarrhea
• Muscle pains
• Loss of taste or smell
• Sore throat
• Nasal congestion
• Nausea and vomiting