A new and highly contagious COVID-19 variant, nicknamed 'Covid Stratus', is now the dominant strain circulating across the United Kingdom, according to the latest data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). This offshoot of the Omicron family, scientifically known as BA.2.86, is demonstrating a significant ability to spread, even among those with prior immunity.
What Are the Tell-Tale Symptoms of Covid Stratus?
While Covid Stratus shares common ground with previous variants, health professionals are reporting a noticeable shift in the symptom profile. The classic loss of taste and smell appears to be less common. Instead, be on high alert for:
- A persistent, hacking cough
- Runny nose and sneezing
- Sore throat
- Headache
- Fatigue and general malaise
These symptoms can often be mistaken for a severe cold or seasonal flu, leading to underestimation of the infection.
How Long Can You Expect to Feel Unwell?
For most healthy adults, the acute phase of a Covid Stratus infection typically lasts between five days to two weeks. However, the duration can vary significantly based on individual health, vaccination status, and whether it's a first-time infection or a reinfection.
Experts caution that some individuals may experience lingering effects, often referred to as Long Covid, for weeks or even months after the initial illness has passed. Common long-term symptoms include extreme fatigue, 'brain fog', and shortness of breath.
Who is Most at Risk?
As with earlier strains, elderly individuals and those with underlying health conditions—such as respiratory issues, diabetes, or a compromised immune system—remain the most vulnerable to severe illness from the Covid Stratus variant. The UKHSA continues to emphasise the importance of booster vaccinations for these groups to bolster protection.
Staying Protected Against the New Variant
The fundamental advice for limiting the spread of Covid Stratus remains unchanged. Health officials strongly recommend:
- Staying up to date with recommended COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters.
- Practising good hand hygiene with regular washing or sanitising.
- Considering wearing a face mask in crowded, enclosed public spaces.
- Ensuring indoor spaces are well-ventilated by opening windows.
- Staying home and avoiding contact with others if you develop symptoms.
With Covid Stratus now accounting for a substantial proportion of cases, vigilance and proactive measures are key to managing this new chapter in the pandemic.
