Two new Covid strains, known as XFG, or Stratus, and NB.1.8.1, or Nimbus, are now the most common variants in the UK – and they come with a new symptom
A rise in Coronavirus cases nationwide has been characterised by one commonly reported symptom. Two fresh Covid variants, dubbed XFG, or Stratus and NB. 1.8.1, or Nimbus, are now the predominant strains circulating throughout the UK.
Whilst they’re thought not to present any greater danger than earlier Covid variants, they appear to be triggering a distinctive symptom. Numerous people who’ve caught the latest strain have described suffering from a “razor blade” sore throat or developing a raspy voice.
This may be accompanied by a broad range of additional symptoms including coughing, a stuffy nose, a headache, and fatigue. Throat-related symptoms can be exceptionally irritating. However, you must address them correctly and efficiently to stay as comfortable as possible whilst you recuperate.
Dr Alex Allen, Consultant Epidemiologist at UKHSA, added: “Based on the available information so far, there is no evidence to suggest that the variants cause more severe disease or that the vaccines in current use will be less effective against them.”
Treating a sore throat caused by Covid
When battling a cough or sore throat, it might be appealing to dash to the chemist and buy a bottle of cough mixture. Nevertheless, this may not be the most efficient method to tackle a cough or sore throat, owing to insufficient scientific proof.
Cough medicines generally function in a variety of ways to help suppress a cough. This can include using antitussives to reduce the cough reflex, antihistamines to alleviate congestion, and decongestants to constrict the blood vessels in the lungs and nose.
A doctor from Southampton has previously cautioned parents against using over-the-counter cough syrups and medicines. Dr Oliver Bevington of Royal Hampshire County Hospital stated: “Most coughs and colds in children will be caused by a viral infection which will get better without antibiotics and with rest, fluids and possibly paracetamol and/or ibuprofen, though many parents worry persistent symptoms will be damaging and reach for cough syrups.”
He further explained: “A lot of cough and cold medicines contain active ingredients such as nasal decongestants, antihistamines and ‘cough suppressors’ that may, in large doses, have adverse effects or be toxic if consumed in large quantities – particularly to the under-6s who are much more susceptible.
“They may also contain paracetamol and parents may unintentionally find themselves overdosing their child with cough medicine and paracetamol while, as with any medicine, there remains a risk that any of the ingredients could cause an allergic reaction or other unwanted side effect.”
He concluded: “The bottom line is there is absolutely no evidence that cough medicines work as there has been very little research with regards to their use and, potentially, they could actually do children more harm than good.”
The NHS instead recommends that people soothe a sore throat by drinking plenty of fluids and having a teaspoon of honey. Similarly, Dr Bevington suggests parents should opt for honey, lemon, rest, fluids, and paracetamol and ibuprofen.
Further guidance on treating a sore throat can be found on the NHS website here.