A doctor has reminded Britons of three important steps to help reduce the spread of a new strain of Covid, known as Stratus, which is spreading rapidly and causing 'peculiar symptoms'. The Stratus strain, which includes variants XFG and XFG.3, accounts for a significant proportion of cases in England, experts say.
Dr Kader, who shares medical advice on TikTok, has urged people to take measures to avoid infection, particularly as autumn begins and people become more prone to illnesses. In a recent clip, he recommended three key steps: wearing masks in crowded indoor spaces, maintaining good hand hygiene, and ensuring proper ventilation.
Stratus, first discovered in January and recognised as a threat to the UK in the summer, spreads faster than previous strains. Its unusual symptoms include a hoarse voice, bloating, and acid reflux, which are not typically linked to earlier variants. Dr Kader noted that the new variant often starts with ear, nose, and throat symptoms, such as a hoarse voice or sore throat, and also presents with gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting, and bloating.
While Stratus often causes a milder infection, Dr Kader warned that it is more contagious, leading to a surge in cases. He attributed the rapid spread to colder weather driving people indoors, where they pass the virus to each other. The TikTok clip has garnered over 19,000 likes and been shared by more than 24,000 users.
Comments from viewers include one who said, 'I have it just now. Much worse than last time,' and another who reported, 'I had a positive Covid test two days ago, and it's definitely different... I'm not sneezing or coughing. It's affected my ears, and I feel dizzy and off balance.'
