Types have specific symptom as latest figures show infections have ‘doubled’ and officials say ‘stay at home’ if people think they’ve got it
New Covid variants, known as Stratus and Nimbus, are now the most common strains being passed around in the UK, according to officials, and they could cause a specific symptom.
If you’re feeling rough with a sore throat and fever, you might have picked up one of the fresh Covid strains doing the rounds this autumn. XFG, dubbed Stratus by some, and NB. 1.8.1, nicknamed Nimbus, are currently the most prevalent variants spreading throughout the UK, according to officials.
Health experts say these don’t seem to present any greater risk than earlier forms of Covid or make people sicker. However, recent genetic mutations the virus has developed could make catching it more probable.
According to the Royal College of GPs Covid rates are on the rise across the UK, particularly among the very young and elderly. Hospital admissions linked to Covid are also seeing an uptick. The latest figures from the Royal College show rates of Covid have doubled in the last four weeks.
Experts say viruses change as they transmit between individuals over time. When the alterations become substantially different, the new virus forms are called variants.
Based on some reports, external, there might be distinctive symptoms with the newest ones – a croaky voice or a “razor blade” sore throat. Covid can still trigger a broad spectrum of symptoms, including headaches, coughing, a stuffy or runny nose and fatigue, making it hard to tell apart from a cold or flu.
Dr Aaron Glatt, chair of the department of medicine and chief of infectious diseases, told TODAY.com “A ‘razor blade throat’ is a very descriptive term describing severe sore throat pain — as if their throat is covered with razor blades — (like) with various viral infections.
“While not specific to Covid-19, this expression has been used to describe sore throat symptoms in some patients with the most recent Covid-19 variant.”
The UK Health Security Agency this week told people to stay at home if they have symptoms of Covid, to avoid spreading it – and if a person does need to go out they should wear a mask.
If people become unwell, and are unsure if they have COVID-19, what should they do?
The UKHSA says: “If you have symptoms of a respiratory infection, such as COVID-19, and you have a high temperature or do not feel well enough to go to work or carry out normal activities, you should avoid contact with vulnerable people and stay at home if possible.
“For those of us who absolutely can’t stay at home, the Living with COVID guidance remains unchanged, and will reduce the chance of passing on your infection to others: “
- Wear a well-fitting face covering made with multiple layers or a surgical face mask
- Avoid crowded places such as public transport, large social gatherings, or anywhere that is enclosed or poorly ventilated
- Take any exercise outdoors in places where you will not have close contact with other people
- Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze; wash your hands frequently with soap and water for 20 seconds or use hand sanitiser after coughing, sneezing and blowing your nose and before you eat or handle food; avoid touching your face
Geting a Covid test or vaccine
Those over 75 can avail of a free Covid jab on the NHS, which offers robust protection even against new variants, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).
The agency is urging folks to book their jabs against flu and another common winter virus, RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), as cases begin to surge ahead of the chilly season.
“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,” says the UKHSA.
“The most important thing is for those eligible to get their vaccination when it is due.”
A number of High Street chemists and private clinics also offer Covid vaccines. The cost varies, with some charging around £99 for a single dose.