Share this @internewscast.com
If you’re feeling unwell with a sharp sore throat and high fever, you might have contracted one of the new Covid strains circulating this autumn. In the UK, the predominant variants are XFG, known as Stratus, and NB.1.8.1, known as Nimbus.
Experts have reassured us that these variants don’t seem to be more threatening than previous Covid types or cause worse illness. However, the virus’s latest genetic alterations might make catching it easier and present slightly different symptoms.
Dr. Kaywaan Khan, a Harley Street GP and Founder of Hannah London Clinic, told the Mirror: “You might still experience common cold symptoms, such as a cough or a runny nose, but we are noticing much more hoarseness of the voice.”
Dr. Khan continued: “While this isn’t a defining feature, since it can occur with the common cold as well, Covid can lead to a bit of laryngitis, resulting in a hoarse voice.”
This is somewhat different from the symptoms of other strains. Dr. Khan added: “You might experience a razor-sharp sore throat and potentially a loss of taste. Although less common than with earlier strains, this can indicate Covid.”
It is typical for viruses to evolve as they spread among people over time. When the changes become markedly different, the new virus types are called variants.
Covid continues to present a variety of symptoms, including headaches, coughing, a blocked or runny nose and fatigue, making it tricky to differentiate from a common cold or flu.
If you suspect you have contracted Covid, it is crucial to avoid contact with vulnerable people and stay home if feasible. If you do have to leave the house while experiencing symptoms, current guidance still recommends wearing a mask, washing hands regularly and disposing of tissues properly to help curb the spread.
Dr Khan strongly advises early testing for those who are more susceptible or have compromised immune systems.
He explains: “With Covid, you can get antivirals, but this will only be beneficial if you get tested really early. If you are immunocompromised, or have another condition, testing can provide information to your GP and they can consider antiviral medication.”
The NHS offers free Covid vaccines to people over 75. This can provide substantial protection, even against new variants, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).
The agency is encouraging people to schedule their jabs against flu and another prevalent winter virus, RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), as cases begin to rise in anticipation of winter.
The UKHSA said: “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.
“The most important thing is for those eligible to get their vaccination when it is due.”
