Is a rash a symptom of Omicron? Signs of Covid on your skin to look out for

While many of the commonly associated Omicron Symptoms are similar to a cold, many people are finding that a strange symptom is appearing on their skin. Here’s what we know

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Omicron: Dr Amir talks through the symptoms of the new strain

Despite the relentless presence of the Omicron wave and the huge number of positive cases to boot, the exact details of the variant are still to be pinned down by scientists.

Reports from many experts have warned that unlike the symptoms of the previous waves – a new and continuous cough, a loss or change in taste or smell, and fever – Omicron’s symptoms are somewhat more varied.

Fortunately, many of the symptoms appear to be milder than in previous variants, although lots of people are still being hospitalised and hundreds still tragically losing their lives.

Many of the symptoms are more in keeping with those of a cold, although there are reports of many strange and unusual ones circulating as well.

One sign on the skin is being commonly reported by patients testing positive for Omicron.

Could the rash on your skin be Omicron?

According to the ZOE COVID Study app, rashes are being confirmed by patients who have tested positive for Covid.

Having a rash does not mean you have Covid on its own, however, it could be an indicator and so people finding a new rash may be best off taking a lateral flow test.

There are two types of rash that have been reported.

One is similar to a prickly heat rash – it appears in small areas and is itchy and bumpy. It can appear anywhere on the body but is believed to have been most commonly found on the hands and feet, as well as elbows.

The second type is more similar to a hives rash. This style appears as raised bumps on the skin.

Of the two, the prickly heat style is the more persistent and can last for days or even weeks.

Meanwhile the hive-like one tends to come and go much quicker.

Another type of skin-related symptom has been described as similar to chilblain. Sore patches can appear which have a purple or red colouring and often stick out above the skin like little bumps.

These are not reported to be itchy and are more commonly found amongst younger people to have contracted the virus.

The skin symptoms discussed are thought to be visible for some people with the virus who are not showing any other symptoms.

Therefore if you exhibit these symptoms it might be wise to take a test.

Emergency Omicron warning sign on the skin

The US-based Center for Disease Control has also identified a symptom on the skin it regards as an “emergency warning sign”. They say people should be on the lookout for pale, grey or blue-coloured skin, lips or nail beds.

This is because it can indicate a low level of oxygen in the blood.