🚨 New Covid Alert: Meet the Stratus Variant! 🚨
Just when we thought Covid might be old news, a new variant named Stratus is making waves across the UK. This strain, with its two types XFG and XFG.3, is rapidly spreading, especially XFG.3, which now makes up 40% of cases in England.
What’s the tell-tale sign? A hoarse or gravelly voice is the subtle symptom that should grab your attention. This might develop into the more familiar Covid symptoms like fever or cough. So, don’t just shrug off a scratchy throat!
The Stratus variant is more transmissible but not believed to cause more severe illness. However, be aware of other possible symptoms such as blocked noses, sore throats, digestive issues, and fatigue.
🔍 Health expert tips: Dr Kaywaan Khan highlights hoarseness as a noticeable symptom and infectious disease specialist Dr Peter Chin-Hong mentions a broader range of symptoms compared to earlier strains. Especially with kids back at school, a simple sniffle could be more than meets the eye.
Although new symptoms are showing up, official UK Covid guidance remains unchanged. Try to stay home if you test positive. While most free tests are no longer available, you can purchase them at stores. Remember, NHS vaccinations are still ongoing.
Stay vigilant and take care! 🦠