Fresh Covid variants, dubbed Stratus and Nimbus, have become the dominant strains circulating across the UK, according to officials, and they may trigger a particular symptom.
Should you be feeling unwell with a sore throat and temperature, you might have contracted one of the latest Covid strains making the rounds this autumn. XFG, referred to as Stratus by some, and NB.
1.8. 1, nicknamed Nimbus, are presently the most widespread variants spreading throughout Britain, according to officials.
Medical experts suggest these don’t appear to pose any heightened threat compared to previous forms of Covid or make individuals more poorly. Nevertheless, recent genetic changes the virus has undergone could make contracting it more likely.
According to the Royal College of GPs, Covid rates are climbing across Britain, especially amongst the very young and elderly. Hospital admissions connected to Covid are also experiencing an increase.
The most recent data from the Royal College reveals rates of Covid have doubled over the past four weeks. Data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) shows the hospitalisation rate for Covid has risen from 1.71 per 100,000 people at the end of August, to 2.73 per 100,000 last week.
Experts explain viruses evolve as they spread between people over time. When the changes become significantly different, the new virus forms are termed variants.
Based on some reports, external, there could be distinct symptoms with the latest ones – a hoarse voice or a “razor blade” sore throat. Covid can still cause a wide range of symptoms, including headaches, coughing, a blocked or runny nose and tiredness, making it difficult to distinguish from a cold or flu.
Dr Aaron Glatt, a leading infectious diseases expert, told TODAY.com: “A ‘razor blade throat’ is a very descriptive term describing severe sore throat pain – as if their throat is covered with razor blades – (like) with various viral infections.
“While not specific to Covid-19, this expression has been used to describe sore throat symptoms in some patients with the most recent Covid-19 variant.”
The UK Health Security Agency has urged Britons to stay at home if they exhibit any symptoms of Covid, in an effort to curb its spread. If it’s necessary to venture out, wearing a mask is advised.
What should individuals do if they fall ill and are uncertain whether they have contracted COVID-19?
If people become unwell, and are unsure if they have COVID-19, what should they do?
The UKHSA says: “If you have symptoms of a respiratory infection, such as COVID-19, and you have a high temperature or do not feel well enough to go to work or carry out normal activities, you should avoid contact with vulnerable people and stay at home if possible.
“For those of us who absolutely can’t stay at home, the Living with COVID guidance remains unchanged, and will reduce the chance of passing on your infection to others:
- Wear a well-fitting face covering made with multiple layers or a surgical face mask
- Avoid crowded places such as public transport, large social gatherings, or anywhere that is enclosed or poorly ventilated
- Take any exercise outdoors in places where you will not have close contact with other people
- Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze; wash your hands frequently with soap and water for 20 seconds or use hand sanitiser after coughing, sneezing and blowing your nose and before you eat or handle food; avoid touching your face”
Getting a Covid test or vaccine.
Those aged 75 and over can avail themselves of a free Covid jab on the NHS, which provides strong protection even against new variants, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).
The agency is encouraging people to get their flu and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) jabs as cases begin to rise ahead of the winter season.
“It’s normal for viruses to mutate and change, and as more data becomes available on these variants, we’ll have a better understanding of how they interact with our immune systems and how to optimise our protection, as well as actions we can take to keep the most vulnerable safe and live our lives as normally as possible,” says the UKHSA.
“The most important thing is for those eligible to get their vaccination when it is due.”
A variety of High Street chemists and private clinics also provide Covid vaccines. The cost varies, with some charging around £99 for a single dose.