A new Covid variant spreading across the UK has a distinctive symptom that can be spotted immediately - hoarseness of voice. The XFG strain, also known as Stratus, is currently one of the most prevalent variants circulating nationwide.
Covid-19 positivity rates have increased from 7.6% to 8.4% week-on-week according to UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) data. Hospital admissions due to Covid have risen from 2 per 100,000 to 2.73 per 100,000 people.
Dr Kaywaan Khan, a Harley Street GP, said: "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." He explained this symptom differs from typical cold presentations.
Distinctive symptoms emerge
The variant can cause laryngitis-like symptoms alongside the characteristic hoarse voice. Dr Khan continued: "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."
Other symptoms include a razor-sharp sore throat and potential loss of taste, though the latter appears less common than in earlier strains. The XFG variant also presents typical Covid symptoms including headaches, coughing, blocked or runny nose and fatigue.
Experts have reassured that the new variant does not appear to pose any greater risk than previous forms of Covid or cause more severe illness. However, recent genetic alterations may increase infection chances and present slightly different symptom patterns.
Testing and protection advice
Early testing remains crucial for vulnerable individuals and those with compromised immune systems. Dr Khan said: "With Covid, you can get antivirals, but this will only be beneficial if you get tested really early."
Anyone suspecting Covid infection should avoid contact with vulnerable individuals and stay home when possible. Current guidance still advises wearing masks when leaving the house while symptomatic, washing hands regularly and disposing of tissues properly.
The NHS offers free Covid vaccines to people over 75, which can provide significant protection even against new variants. The UKHSA is urging eligible people to book vaccinations against flu and RSV as cases begin rising ahead of winter.
Normal viral evolution
The UKHSA stated: "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." The agency emphasised that vaccination remains the most important protection measure for eligible individuals.
Sources used: "The Mirror", "The Express", "UK Health Security Agency", "Manchester Evening News", "Birmingham Mail", "Nottingham Post"
Note: This article has been created with Artificial Intelligence (AI).
