And, as research has found, “with pre-omicron variants, the [incubation] periods tended to be longer,” he said. A shorter incubation period means COVID-19 can spread more easily.

Given the potential for a shorter incubation period, Vanderbilt’s Schaffner advised that anyone who has been in contact with an infected individual get tested about 72 hours following the exposure.

“One of the most noticeable symptoms of the Stratus variant is hoarseness, which includes a scratchy or raspy voice," ...