A doctor has revealed the unusual symptoms to look out for that could be a sign of the latest Covid variant
The main Covid symptoms to look out for this season(Image: Getty Images)
As Covid-19 cases continue to surge across the UK, a doctor has revealed the common symptoms of the virus to look out for.
When the virus first began to circulate in 2020, its main symptoms included fever or chills, a new, continuous cough, and a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste.
However, as it mutated over time and new strains emerged, many people now experience cold-like symptoms.
The latest Covid variant in circulation is XFG, also known as Stratus. It first emerged this year, but soon became the dominant strain in the UK.
The latest data by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) shows 82 per cent of all Covid cases recorded in England between September 1 and September 14 were the Stratus variant.
Covid cases are on the rise as autumn sets in(Image: Getty Images)
Dr Kaywaan Khan, a Harley Street GP and Founder of Hannah London Clinic, has revealed the key symptoms of the latest Covid variant to look out for.
Dr Khan told the Mirror: “You can still get some of the same features as with the common cold, like a cough or runny nose, but we are seeing a lot more hoarseness of voice. It’s not a defining feature, you can experience this with the common cold too but with Covid, you can get a bit of laryngitis and this hoarse voice.”
This is somewhat different to symptoms from other strains. Dr Khan added: “You can get a razor sharp sore throat, but also loss of taste. It’s probably less common than the first strains but that can indicate Covid.”
Despite its different symptoms, experts say the Stratus variant does not appear to pose any bigger threat than previous types of Covid or make people feel more ill.
It comes as Covid cases continue to rise across England. UKHSA data shows a 19 per cent spike in cases in the week up to October 1, climbing to 3,049 cases. Data also shows weekly Covid hospitalisations and deaths are also rising.
The new Stratus Covid variant is now the dominant strain in England(Image: Getty Images)
Dr Khan strongly advises early Covid testing for those who are more susceptible or have compromised immune systems.
He said: “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.”
Below is a full list of Covid Stratus symptoms, according to the NHS and UKHSA:
FeverCoughSneezingRunny noseLoss of smellHoarsenessThroat painMuscle achesHeadachesNauseaVomitingDiarrhoea