Share this @internewscast.com
A new Covid variant, referred to as ‘Stratus’, is spreading swiftly and exhibits a distinctive symptom that differentiates it from other strains. This strain, encompassing variants XFG and XFG. 3, was initially identified in January, and by June, the World Health Organisation (WHO) had classified XFG as ‘under monitoring’ due to its ‘growing global proportions’.
On 3 September, the UK Health Security Agency announced a 7.1% rise in coronavirus cases across England in comparison to the previous week, although the specific number of those affected by the XFG strain remains unclear. Health authorities in Ireland also noted 425 new infections in the first week of September, with the XFG variant attributed to the majority of these new cases. Generally, Covid symptoms often mirror those of common respiratory illnesses such as the flu, including fever, cough, sneezing, or a runny nose.
Symptoms vary from case to case, with some experiencing minor to severe signs, reports the Mirror.
However, Stratus most commonly begins with a hoarse or raspy voice, which may precede more typical Covid symptoms. Due to this unusual early sign, the variant can be easily missed.
Medical experts have also recorded a host of additional symptoms, including blocked noses, painful throats, digestive issues and exhaustion.
Dr Gareth Nye commented: “In many respects, it’s almost identical. Nonetheless, individuals with this version tend to develop very sore throats and a hoarse voice, in contrast to the other more general symptoms like cough, fever, and aches.”
“Illnesses always see spikes as children go back to school, as close contact and often lower personal hygiene levels mix.”
He further noted: “This version is more likely to make you ill since it appears capable of evading your immune system even if you’ve previously encountered it. [This] reduces the efficacy of prior vaccines, which underscores the importance of regular vaccination against the latest coronavirus. It’s akin to updating your phone for the best possible experience.”
Infectious disease specialist Dr Peter Chin-Hong from the University of California, San Francisco, also cautioned that Stratus exhibits a “broader array of symptoms” compared to earlier variants.
Speaking to SFGATE, he said: “There’s a little bit more 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.”
