New Covid Variant ‘Stratus‘ Driving Rise in UK Cases, Doctors Say
Cases of Covid-19 rose 7.6% in the frist week of September, according too figures from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). While it’s unclear how many cases are specifically linked to the new ’Stratus’ variant – comprised of sub-variants XFG and XFG - doctors are noting potential differences in symptoms.
Dr.Gareth Nye, from the University of Salford, explained the variant appears capable of evading prior immunity.”This version is more likely to make you sick, though, as they appear to be able to avoid your immune system even if you’ve had it before. [This] makes prior vaccines less useful, which makes regular vaccination against the latest coronavirus even more critically important. Think of it like updating your phone to get the best possible experience.” He also noted seasonal increases in illness coinciding wiht children returning to school and increased close contact.
Dr. Peter Chin-Hong, an infectious disease specialist from the University of California, observed a “wider range” of symptoms with the Stratus variant. “There’s a little bit more [of] sore throats with some people,” he told SFGATE, ”notably in those who are older, who didn’t get vaccinated last year.” He added that, with children back in school, even a simple sniffle could indicate a Covid infection.
The NHS will begin offering complimentary vaccine boosters in October to those most vulnerable to severe illness: adults aged 75 and above, residents in care homes, and immunosuppressed individuals aged six months and older.
