The NHS is warning Brits to be on alert for a symptom which could be a sign of Covid. Symptoms of the virus can include chills, a loss or change to your sense of smell, aches, fatigue and shortness of breath.
Another sign of Covid listed as a possible symptom is a new, continuous cough. In advice posted on its official website, the NHS said this means coughing a lot more for over an hour or three or more coughing “episodes” in 24 hours.
Other symptoms include a headache, sore throat, a runny or blocked nose, loss of appetite, diarrhoea or being sick, according to the NHS.
Health experts have identified the XFG variant, referred to as Stratus, as the most common strain in the UK currently. The NB.1.8.1 strain, known as Nimbus, has also been widely detected.
The UKHSA has warned the newer variants may cause a “particularly painful” sore throat or hoarse voice besides other Covid symptoms.
Figures from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) show there were 2,618 cases of Covid in the seven days to October 15 – down 20% on the previous number.
In total, 141 deaths were recorded in the week to October 10, a rise of 41%. Up to September 30, a total of 2,077 patients were admitted to hospital, according to NHS England hospitalisation figures cited by UKHSA. This represented a 9.7% rise.
There are no longer any Government-enforced rules about isolation, but the NHS still advises those who test positive to be cautious and behave with others in mind.
Adults are advised to try and stay at home and avoid contact with others if they or their children show symptoms of COVID-19.
Children with mild symptoms can go to school if they feel well enough, according to the NHS. Mild symptoms include a runny nose, mild cough or sore throat.
Those who are under 18 and test positive should try and stay at home and avoid contact with others for three days after the day the test was taken.
Adults should do the same but for five days. The NHS advises people who test positive for Covid to avoid anyone with a weakened immune system for 10 days after taking a test.
