New Covid variants, named FLiRT and LB.1, are spreading across the UK, prompting doctors to issue a summer warning. Those experiencing a persistent cough or sore throat may have contracted one of these new strains, which are characterised by mutations in the spike protein that may enhance transmissibility and immune evasion.
Dr Mariyam Malik, an NHS and private GP at Pall Mall Medical, attributed the resurgence to increased travel and large events like festivals, where crowded settings facilitate spread, coupled with the absence of legal restrictions such as mask-wearing or social distancing. She noted that the variants might evade immunity from past infections or vaccines, explaining why vaccinated individuals are still falling ill.
Symptoms of FLiRT and LB.1 are similar to earlier Covid strains, including fever, cough, fatigue, loss of taste or smell, sore throat, muscle aches, shortness of breath, headache, and runny nose. Standard PCR tests and rapid antigen (lateral flow) tests can detect these variants, although sensitivity of the latter may vary.
Doctors recommend self-isolation, rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications such as paracetamol or ibuprofen for symptom relief. They advise monitoring symptoms closely and seeking medical help if they worsen, particularly if severe symptoms like difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion, or persistent high fever develop. Those with underlying health conditions should contact their GP if they test positive or develop symptoms.
To prevent spread, Dr Malik emphasised staying up to date with vaccinations and boosters, regular hand-washing, testing, and isolating if symptomatic or positive. For mild cases, rest and home treatment are usually sufficient, and a GP visit is generally unnecessary.
