Covid Variants this Autumn
If you feel uncomfortable with a bad neck and temperature, you may have caught one of the new variants of the Covid circulation this autumn. XFG and NB.1.8.1 are today the most common variants that are passed on in the UK. Experts say that they do not seem to make a greater threat than earlier types of covid or make people feel more sick. The recent genetic changes that the virus acquired can make infections more likely.
How Covid Variants Develop
It is common for viruses to develop when they spread between people over time. If the changes become significantly different, the new virus types are called variants. There can be symptoms distributed with the latest symptoms – a hoarse voice or a "razor blade" sore throat. Covid can still lead to a variety of symptoms, including headache, cough, blocked or running nose and exhaustion, which makes it difficult to distinguish from a cold or flu.
What to Do if You Think You Have Covid
If you think you have Covid, you should avoid contact with people in need of protection and stay at home if possible. If you have symptoms and have to leave the house, the advice remains that you should wear face cover. Regular washing of hands and the use and disposal of tissues in containers can reduce the spread of these and other respiratory diseases. For sore throat, drink a lot of liquid and have one teaspoon of honey can help.
Covid Rates and Hospital Admissions
According to the Royal College of GPS, Covid rates are now increasing in the whole of Great Britain, especially in very young and older people. Hospital admissions for Covid are also increased.
Covid Tests and Vaccines
People over 75 can get a free vaccine against Covid on the NHS. This can also offer good protection against the new variants. It asks people to book their vaccinations against flu and another frequent winter virus called RSV if the cases increase before winter. It is possible to catch Covid again, even if they had it recently or have been vaccinated. Pure infections are usually mild, but they can feel uncomfortable and still spread the virus to others. Covid tests are no longer available free of charge, but they are still selling them. A number of high street chemists and private clinics also sell covid vaccines. The costs vary, with some around 99 £ calculated for a single dose.
