Fever ‘no longer main Covid symptom’ – signs to identify as new variants emerge
Health consultants are presently monitoring rising Covid variants, one among which might be referred to as “Pi”.
But one, which has been named Eris, a descendant of the Omicron variant, is presently one of many quickest rising Covid strains globally.
Llinos Connolly, the Clinical Services Sister at Benenden Health, stated: “Eris is now the second most prevalent strain of COVID-19 within the UK.”
While a fever was probably the most reported signs of Covid firstly of the pandemic, Connolly stated it’s “no longer the main symptom”.
Instead, she lists the primary signs as:
- Sore throat
- Runny nostril
- Blocked nostril
- Sneezing
- Coughing (with and with out phlegm)
- Headaches
- Muscle aches
- Hoarse voice.
While testing is now not a requirement, individuals can nonetheless buy check kits.
After the preliminary an infection of Covid, restoration may proceed for as much as 12 weeks.
“The virus’ effects can range from a few days up to 12 weeks,” Connolly emphasised.
“To recover from COVID-19 try to get lots of rest and drink plenty of fluids,” she added.
“Make sure to take paracetamol or ibuprofen to help ease those symptoms, if you feel uncomfortable.”
Is it Covid or the flu?
“Seasonal influenza [summer flu] and COVID-19 are brought on by totally different respiratory viruses,” stated Connolly.
“Both are contagious and both viruses present in similar symptoms, so you can’t always differentiate between the two viruses without testing.
“The flu is extra prevalent from September to March, nevertheless whereas extra prevalent within the winter months, you may nonetheless catch all of it 12 months spherical.”
Symptoms of flu can include:
- A high temperature (fever) of 38C (100.4F) or above
- Tiredness and weakness
- Headaches
- General aches and pains
- A dry, chesty cough.
Connolly also noted that shortness of breath is commonly associated with Covid and not the flu.
One potential differentiating factor between Covid and the flu is that the latter typically takes a week to recover from.
Whether you have Covid or the flu, if you have an annoying cough, one remedy is to eat some honey.
Connolly explained: “One tip is that you probably have a cough, eat a teaspoon of honey and attempt to sit up or lie in your aspect.
“If you feel breathless, keep your room cool in temperature and breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth.”