If you are feeling unwell, one unexpected symptom may indicate infection with the new strain of COVID that is currently spreading in the UK and other European countries. One of the most common variants is XFG, also known as Stratus.
Experts note that the new variant is not more dangerous than previous ones and does not cause more severe symptoms; however, recent genetic changes in the virus may increase its contagiousness and lead to somewhat different manifestations — for example, a persistent feeling of scratchiness in the throat.
"You may experience common cold symptoms — a cough or a runny nose — but there are now many more cases where the illness is accompanied by hoarseness of voice," the publication Express writes.
"This may be related to a cold, but it is important to remember that the Stratus strain causes mild inflammation of the larynx, which results in hoarseness. This symptom distinguishes it from other variants — there is no sharp throat pain as before."
Pharmacist Kivi from the Võru Rimi Benu pharmacy in Estonia: "The new Covid strain — Stratus — has already spread to many other countries during the summer, and its spread is now occurring in Estonia. Like other strains, Stratus can be confused with other viral illnesses and the flu, as the main symptoms are still fever, cough, and runny nose. However, in addition to the usual symptoms, this strain is often characterized by hoarseness of voice and sore throat."
Although the Stratus strain has been noted as highly contagious, experts emphasize that, fortunately, it is not more dangerous than other strains. COVID can still cause headaches, cough, nasal congestion or runny nose, and fatigue, making it difficult to diagnose and often confused with a cold or flu.
If you suspect you have COVID, avoid contact with people in at-risk groups and, if possible, stay at home. If you need to go out, wear a mask, wash your hands more often, and properly dispose of used tissues — this will help reduce the risk of spreading the virus.
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