Latest COVID information

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Covid Cases Rising with New Variants This Autumn

If you’re feeling unwell with a sore throat and a temperature, you may have caught one of the new strains of Covid now circulating in the UK.

The two most common variants are:

  • XFG (“Stratus”)
  • NB.1.8.1 (“Nimbus”)

What We Know About the New Variants

  • They do not appear to cause more severe illness than previous strains.
  • They may, however, be easier to catch due to recent genetic changes.
  • Some people are reporting a “razor blade” sore throat or hoarse voice as tell-tale symptoms.

Covid symptoms can still overlap with colds and flu, including:

  • Headache
  • Cough
  • Blocked/runny nose
  • Fatigue

What to Do if You Feel Unwell

  • Avoid contact with vulnerable people and stay at home if possible.
  • If you must go out, wear a face covering.
  • Keep up with handwashing and good hygiene to reduce spread.
  • For a sore throat: stay hydrated and consider a teaspoon of honey for relief (NHS advice).

Vaccines and Testing

  • People over 75 can get a free Covid vaccine on the NHS.
  • The vaccine still offers good protection, even against the latest variants.
  • Free Covid tests are no longer widely available, but you can buy them from pharmacies.

Expert Advice

According to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA):

” There is no evidence these new variants cause more severe disease or that current vaccines are less effective. The most important step is for those eligible to get their vaccinations when due“