Early symptoms of Covid that could mean you need to take a test – My London
You can buy a Covid test strip from your nearest pharmacy
It’s worth testing to check if your symptoms are being caused by Covid(Image: Nico De Pasquale Photography via Getty Images)
Crucial early signs of Covid that indicate you should get a test
Brits are being encouraged to test for Covid if they experience certain early symptoms. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) first detected the ‘Stratus’ variant of Covid back in January, and by June it had been placed “under monitoring” by the World Health Organisation (WHO).
Whilst Covid symptoms can be easily confused with those of a cold or flu, there are certain symptoms associated with the Stratus variant, according to the Express.
The Stratus variant tends to cause very sore throats and a hoarse voice as opposed to more general symptoms like cough, temperature and aches, according to Dr Gareth Nye from the University of Salford.
Dr Nye also added that the latest Covid variant could have a higher likelihood of causing illness in those who catch it as it seems to be better at evading the immune system. This means previous vaccines are less effective.
The doctor emphasised that it remains crucial to take precautions if you suspect you might be infected, including testing yourself and self-isolating to prevent spreading it to vulnerable elderly people or those with pre-existing medical conditions whose health could be at risk.
Infectious disease specialist Dr Peter Chin-Hong from the University of California also cautioned that the Stratus variant encompasses a “wider range” of symptoms than previous strains.
He also confirmed that a sore throat is the most likely symptom, and that the latest versions of Covid are more transmissible.
Since October the NHS has been offering free vaccine boosters to certain groups with the goal of safeguarding those at the greatest risk of health complications.
Those eligible include adults aged over 75, residents in care homes for older adults and those who are immunosuppressed and aged six months and over.
Read the full story here: Covid warning from doctor to take test if you have these early symptoms
