Doctor Warns That A New Covid Variant Could Mimic Allergy Symptoms
A doctor has identified a new strain of Covid that may be confused with hay fever.
A new strain of Covid has spread across the nation in recent weeks, though it might not be sufficient to force us into another lockdown. While the British may be attributing the symptoms to allergies, it could be an indication of the infectious disease and its new strain, as it also coincides with the long-dreaded hay fever season.
Although the distinctions between the two may cause confusion, the health news follows the Met Office’s report of elevated pollen levels throughout the United Kingdom.
Additionally, hospital admissions attributable to COVID-19 have risen by about 10%.
Though Birmingham, London, and Manchester have been struck more than others, you may think that this will occur in more rural regions.
What is the new Covid variant?
The NHS reports that in the final week of May, about 950 patients were hospitalised with the latest form, dubbed “Nimbus” and scientifically known as NB.1.8.1.
The World Health Organisation described it as a “variant under monitoring,” noting that the strain is more severe than previous variants that were in use based on the data that is now available.
Since it is a near descendant of earlier strains and mutated from omicron, research is still ongoing to ascertain whether it is more contagious.
What are the similarities between Covid and hay fever?
Sneezing, a runny nose, headaches, or a loss of smell are symptoms of both hay fever and COVID-19. It goes without saying that one is brought on by allergies, while the other is a viral infection that may keep you in bed for days.
Although hay fever is more prevalent in the summer, symptoms can last from March to September, according to Dr. Luke Powles, Associate Clinical Director at Bupa, who spoke to The Sun.
He continued, “This can make it harder to tell if sniffs and sneezes are being caused by an allergy or an infection such as coronavirus.”
How can you tell the difference?
The answer is straightforward: keep an eye out for a high temperature, which is indicative of COVID-19 symptoms but not of hay fever.
‘Hot to touch on your chest or back’ is the NHS definition of a fever, and no temperature reading is required.
Dr. Powles explained that while “completely losing your ability to taste or smell is more likely to result from coronavirus,” hay fever is unlikely to cause a high temperature.
He noted that hay fever symptoms are modest and “aren’t usually serious,” whereas COVID might leave you feeling tired and exhausted.
It is now known as “long Covid” because, as we were informed years ago, the illness can have long-term repercussions, with symptoms that continue for weeks or even months.
While exhaustion and body aches/chills are more common symptoms of COVID, this can also cause nausea, vomiting, or even diarrhoea.
Experts have advised the public to exercise caution if they are unclear and remind British citizens that lateral flow tests, which may assist determine whether or not you have Covid, are still available at several pharmacies.
A spokesperson for the NHS told the publication, “If you’re unsure whether you’re suffering from hay fever or Covid, it’s wise to limit contact with others, especially those who are vulnerable.”