Omicron May Lead to Permanent Loss of Voice, ENT Specialist Says

Infection with the Omicron variant of the coronavirus can lead to a complete loss of voice, said Vladimir Zaytsev, a candidate of medical sciences and an ENT specialist, in an interview with Ura.ru.

According to him, such developments are possible if the infection reaches the throat; at that point, the mucous membrane of the throat can be affected, causing the voice to become hoarse or even disappear entirely.

"If the voice does not recover for an extended period or returns with persistent hoarseness, and if there is paresis or paralysis of the vocal cords, then things are very bad. Irreparable harm can be done to the vocal apparatus and the vocal cords," Zaytsev explained.

He warned that those with congenital throat-related issues should be particularly cautious about Omicron. Individuals who have had their thyroid glands removed are also at risk, as such surgery decreases the protective functions of the throat cavity.

The Omicron variant (or B.1.1.529) was first detected in Botswana and South Africa in November of last year. Researchers believe that even individuals who have recovered from the coronavirus and those who are vaccinated can be infected by it. The new strain has been identified in over 110 countries, including Armenia.

The most effective way to protect against the coronavirus continues to be vaccination.