New Covid strain with 'unusual' symptoms identified as cases surge
The new Covid variant, labelled NB.1.8.1, is causing unusual gastrointestinal problems, health officials have warned
The new strain of Covid is the result of two variants combining
(Image: Getty Images/Westend61 )
Health authorities have issued an alert regarding a new strain of coronavirus after a surge in cases. Residents in Ireland are being advised to self-isolate for two days if they exhibit any Covid symptoms, as the new variant - which presents with unusual symptoms - is also linked to gastrointestinal issues.
The variant, known as NB.1.8.1, has already been identified in the UK, US and Australia. Specialists emphasised that while previous strains have been associated with flu-like symptoms, NB. 1.8.1 can lead to gastrointestinal problems such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and heartburn. Patients experiencing bloating, constipation and abdominal pain could also be suffering from Covid-19, reports the Mirror.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has added the variant to its official watch list, suggesting it may be more transmissible than other strains. However, there's no evidence yet to suggest it leads to more severe illness. For our free daily briefing on the biggest issues facing the nation, sign up to the Wales Matters newsletter here .
According to WHO, the strain first emerged in January and by late April it accounted for approximately 10.7% of global infections, a significant increase from just 2.5% a month earlier.
The variant has also been identified in renowned holiday destinations such as Thailand, Egypt, and the Maldives. It has rapidly become the prevailing strain in some Asian regions, including China and Hong Kong.
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Dr Lara Herrero, an Associate Professor and Virology Research Leader at Griffith University, shared details about the symptoms: "Common symptoms [of NB.1.8.1] include sore throat, fatigue, fever, mild cough, muscle aches and nasal congestion. Gastrointestinal symptoms may also occur in some cases."
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