The symptoms can easily be confused with a cold or flu
A new variant of coronavirus is rapidly being transmitted across the UK, with a doctor highlighting the main symptoms to be aware of. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) first identified the new strain, known as ‘Stratus’, in January and by June, it had been placed “under monitoring” by the World Health Organisation (WHO) due to its “increasing proportions globally”.
In the first week of September, over 1,600 cases of Covid were recorded according to UKHSA data, marking a rise of 7.6 per cent. It isn’t clear how many of these were caused by the new strain, which has two variants – XFG and XFG. 3.
However, with plenty of viruses doing the rounds in the colder months Covid can easily be mistaken for a cold or flu virus. Dr Gareth Nye, from the University of Salford, has pointed out symptoms associated with the Stratus strain specifically.
He told The Mirror: “In most ways, it’s almost identical [to other Covid strains]. However, some people with this version tend to get very sore throats and a hoarse voice, compared with the other more general symptoms like cough, temperature and aches. Illnesses always see spikes as children go back to school, as close contact and often lower personal hygiene levels mix.”
Dr Nye added: “This version is more likely to make you sick, however, as they appear to be able to avoid your immune system even if you’ve had it before. [This] makes prior vaccines less useful, which makes regular vaccination against the latest coronavirus even more important. Think of it like updating your phone to get the best possible experience.”
Even though Covid is now a common illness in the UK, the doctor stressed that it is still incredibly important to take measures if you believe you could be infected. Measures include taking a test and self-isolating to prevent spreading it to vulnerable older people or those whose immune systems may be compromised, reports the Express.
Infectious disease expert Dr Peter Chin-Hong from the University of California also warned that the Stratus variant includes a “wider range” of symptoms than previous strains.
He said: “There’s a little bit more [of] sore throats with some people. Particularly in those who are older, who didn’t get vaccinated last year. It’s more transmissible, so we expect that a lot of people will get it. Particularly with kids going back to school, a sniffle is likely going to be Covid.”
Certain groups are currently entitled to a free vaccine booster on the NHS. 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.
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