Eris: New COVID-19 coronavirus variant detailed
Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 the virus has continued to change – with each mutation bringing a range of different symptoms.
The same is true of one of the newest variants of Covid hitting the UK – the EG.5.1, or Eris, strain. According to figures, around one in seven Covid cases in the UK are currently caused by Eris.
This comes as overall cases are continuing to rise. Data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) shows 10.8 per 100,000 of the population tested positive for the virus in the week leading up to August 14.
This is an increase from 9.3 per 100,000 in the week leading up to July 29.
READ MORE The seven Covid variants to look out for – and how to recognise all the symptoms
As with any illness, spotting the symptoms as soon as possible can ensure swift treatment and, in this case, help prevent further infections.
With this in mind, doctors have shared three signs of Eris that shouldn’t be ignored.
As a descendant of the Omicron strain, Eris is thought to cause symptoms such as a runny nose, sore throat and headache.
However, with this variant the previously common symptoms of shortness of breath, loss of smell and fever are no longer likely.
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Instead, there are other symptoms to watch for. According to New Scientist, these are;
- Diarrhoea
- Rashes
- Eye irritation.
One expert warned that Britons could face a new round of Covid jabs if Eris is shown to be resistant to the current vaccine.
Speaking to The Mirror, Dr Bharat Pankhania – a senior clinical lecturer at the University of Exeter’s medical school, said: “It’s too early to say if this strain is more of a pathologic virus at the moment.
“I was first aware of new cases being reported about four weeks ago. This is not a UK-specific strain, there have been cases all around the world.”
He recommended sticking to NHS advice such as keeping buildings well ventilated to minimise your risk of infection.
“People aren’t testing as much now and our guard is down because it’s summer,” he said.
“It’s important that people who are vulnerable get their vaccines if they haven’t already.
“We’re not in complete and total darkness this time – the old vaccine will still work, but if it’s found not to be giving the same coverage then it will need to be modified and given out again.”
Other symptoms of Eris include:
- A blocked nose
- Sneezing
- A cough without phlegm
- A cough with phlegm
- A hoarse voice
- Muscle aches and pains
- An altered sense of smell.
If you experience symptoms of Covid or test positive for Covid the NHS advises staying home and avoiding others for five days if possible.
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