Easy at residence check to see when you have flu or new Covid variant Eris
Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic the virus has continued to evolve.
Various mutations of the illness, in addition to the introduction of vaccines, has meant the best way our our bodies reply to an infection has modified during the last three years.
With the unfold of the brand new Eris pressure of Covid, which is a descendant of Omicron, consultants have pinpointed slight adjustments in the most typical signs but once more.
One knowledgeable spoke with Express.co.uk to elucidate extra.
According to Abbas Kanani, pharmacist at Chemist Click, the principle signs of Eris to search for embody:
“Traditional symptoms such as shortness of breath, loss of smell and a fever are now far less common,” he stated.
This is backed by findings from the Zoe Health Study, which reported how fever was far much less frequent amongst folks with the Omicron pressure.
How does Eris examine to the flu?
Abbas defined: “Influenza virus can circulate throughout the year; however, it is most common during the winter months.”
He listed the principle signs of flu as:
- A excessive temperature (fever) of 38C (100.4F) or above
- Tiredness and weak spot
- A headache
- General aches and pains
- A dry, chesty cough.
“Cold-like symptoms, such as a blocked or runny nose, sneezing, and a sore throat, can also be caused by flu, but they tend to be less severe than the other symptoms you have,” he stated.
“The main difference between the Eris variant and flu is a change in temperature, but symptoms are very similar.”
For this motive he beneficial the “simple” check of checking your temperature utilizing a thermometer, with a excessive temperature extra more likely to point out flu quite than Covid.
He stated: “Check whether your temperature is high, 38C (100.4F) or above which may indicate flu and not Eris, however the only way to be certain is to do a Covid test.”
Recovery for flu might be faster than for Covid, he added.
“With flu you should begin to feel much better within a week or so, although you may feel tired for much longer,” Abbas stated.
“Most people with COVID-19 will have mild symptoms and feel better within a few weeks.”
To help your restoration he beneficial: “Get lots of rest, drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration, water is best and drink enough so your pee is light yellow and clear.
“You can take paracetamol or ibuprofen if you feel uncomfortable.”
The similar recommendation is relevant when you have flu, he stated.
If you expertise signs of Covid the NHS recommends staying residence and avoiding contact with different folks if attainable.
The well being physique advises calling 111 or getting an pressing GP appointment if:
- You’re frightened about your or a toddler’s COVID-19 signs or will not be positive what to do
- The signs are getting worse or will not be getting higher
- You or a toddler produce other indicators of sickness, corresponding to a rash, lack of urge for food, or feeling weak
- You or a toddler have a excessive temperature that final 5 days or extra or doesn’t come down with paracetamol
- A toddler beneath three months previous and has a temperature of 38C or increased, otherwise you assume they’ve a excessive temperature
- A toddler three to 6 months previous and has a temperature of 39C or increased, otherwise you assume they’ve a excessive temperature.