A pharmacist is recommending households keep a six-item 'sick day kit' at home this autumn and winter, as reports of 'American Covid' - the media nickname for the XFG (or Stratus) variant, a sub-variant of the Omicron strain of SARS-CoV-2 - continue to dominate UK health headlines. The variant acquired its name because it was first sequenced and identified in North America, where it became the dominant strain. Latest health data points to a sharp rise in infections and hospitalisations, prompting concerns about winter pressures on the NHS.
Sharp rise in cases and hospitalisations
According to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), the XFG strain now accounts for more than half of all sequenced positive cases in England. UKHSA monthly data revealed that recorded Covid cases jumped 230%, from 1,374 in August to 4,589 in September. Hospital admissions for patients with Covid rose by over 420%, climbing from 950 to nearly 4,939 in a month.
It is worth noting, however, that the UKHSA stated there is no data or evidence to suggest the XFG strain causes more severe illness than previous variants. The variant is not a sudden mutation; it has been circulating globally and within the UK in some form for over a year. The current winter booster jabs have been specifically tailored to target the XFG strain and its sub-variants. The NHS continues to encourage eligible groups, such as those over 75, care home residents, and the immunosuppressed, to book their autumn/winter vaccinations.
Pharmacist's advice on symptoms and kit
Hanna Yusuf, Prescribing Pharmacist at Chemist4U, said: "Recent figures from the UKHSA show an increase in COVID-19 activity and hospitalisations, with XFG among the variants currently circulating, often referred to as 'American Covid' or the 'Stratus variant'. Symptoms remain broadly similar to those seen with other COVID-19 variants, including fatigue, cough, fever, headache, muscle aches, a runny or blocked nose and sore throat."
A hoarse or croaky voice has also been reported, although this is not unique to XFG. Given the time of year and that these symptoms are very similar to a cold or seasonal virus, patients may not realise they have Covid. The NHS says symptoms of COVID-19 are very similar to those of other illnesses, such as colds and flu. "Most people feel better within a few weeks, but it can take longer to recover. For some people, it can be a more serious illness, and their symptoms can last longer," it says.
The pharmacist advises building a 'sick day kit' to have at home throughout the coming months. Cold and flu activity typically peaks between December and February. She said: "Keep throat spray, lozenges, saline rinses, a reliable thermometer, pain relief, and a few COVID test kits ready at home. This saves panic trips to the pharmacy when you feel unwell."
The six items are: throat spray, lozenges, saline rinses, thermometer, pain relief, and COVID tests. Maintaining a well-stocked home medical kit enables you to manage symptoms straight away, monitor your illness properly, and prevent the spread of contagious viruses without leaving the house when you are feeling poorly. It also enables you to start managing symptoms the moment they appear and prevents you from exposing vulnerable people in public spaces to your illness.
Staying safe as cases rise
Hanna's top tips for staying safe this winter include staying up to date with vaccines, acting quickly if you are high risk, and not ignoring changes in your throat. She also urges people to use a thermometer and a timeline, as well as asking a pharmacist, "not just the internet".
She said: "If you're eligible for COVID boosters or the flu jab, book it early. Usually, protection takes about two weeks to build." She also urges people to remain aware of sore throat symptoms, such as pain, scratchiness, or irritation that often feels worse when you swallow. Treat that as a signal to rest and test, rather than simply powering through.
"Flu symptoms usually hit hard within 24 hours, whereas COVID can build over several days, although it isn't always possible to tell which infection you have based on symptoms alone. Tracking how your symptoms develop can help you work out which you might have, and when you're most infectious," she added. Those with a long-term health condition, who are pregnant, or aged over 65 should not wait until day five before seeking assistance.
Early antiviral treatment can be beneficial, but it is most effective when started promptly. She added: "While there is a lot of helpful information online, pharmacists can advise on symptom management, check medication suitability, and help you access vaccines or treatment quickly, often without needing a GP appointment."
