Two new variants of Covid are circulating in the UK and people are being urged to get vaccinated against the virus
Two fresh variants of Covid are currently circulating in the UK, as per official reports. The XFG variant, also referred to as Stratus, and NB. 1.8. 1, known as Nimbus, do not seem to present a greater risk than previous strains of Covid or cause more severe illness.
However, recent genetic alterations to the virus could potentially increase the likelihood of infection.
The UK Health Security Agency (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 and how to optimise our protection, as well as actions we can take to keep the most vulnerable safe and live our lives as normally as possible.”
Azeem Majeed, professor and head of the department of Primary Care & Public Health at Imperial College London and also a GP, informed the Express that the Nimbus and Stratus variants of Covid typically result in a mild illness for most individuals due to immunity developed over time, reports the Express.
He explained: “Typical symptoms include cough, fever, fatigue, headache, muscle aches, and loss of taste or smell. Other possible symptoms are hoarseness, runny nose, chills, and shortness of breath. Some people also describe a very sore throat, often likened to a ‘razor blade’ sensation.
“Signs of more severe illness include confusion, a high or persistent fever, breathlessness, or low oxygen levels. The risk of severe illness is highest in older adults (those aged 75 years and over) and in people with underlying health conditions like chronic kidney disease or diabetes or who have a suppressed immune system because of their medical condition or the drugs they are taking.”
Whilst younger individuals should experience only a mild infection, elderly people must watch for temperatures that persist beyond several days, difficulty breathing, extreme fatigue and reduced appetite. “If they feel problems like confusion, they should really seek advice very urgently,” he said.
Dr Azeem highlighted that vaccination rates are falling amongst the population. He explained: “Even amongst the older people the vaccine rates have been dropping year by year and in the most last year for example, the uptake of vaccine was around 60% in people over 75, so below the ideal.”
Numerous individuals apparently think the jab is ineffective against newer strains, which he insists is incorrect. He continued: “Evidence shows the vaccines still work against all variants we have faced so far.”
The medic advised elderly people to receive vaccinations twice annually, during spring and autumn periods. Those over 75 are eligible for a complimentary Covid vaccine through the NHS.
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