Major health warning as doctors warn of fast-spreading Covid 19 strain with ‘unusual symptoms’ – 16 signs to watch for

HEALTH bosses have issued a major warning to the Irish public after a new strain of fast-spreading Covid-19 was spotted.

A new variant of the same viral infection that caused the 2020 pandemic has been named NB.1.8.1.

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The new strain has unusual symptoms[/caption]

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People who who the symptoms outlined should stay at home[/caption]

It’s been discovered in both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.

And it’s been reported in Hong Kong and China as well as the US, UK, and Australia.

New data from the Public Health Agency has reported seven new cases of the strain.

And the World Health Organisation has raised the alarm since discovering that ten per cent of Covid infections worldwide are from the new strain.

They recently added NB.1.8.1. to their watchlist, although they noted that while the strain is more transmissible than strain before, there is no evidence to suggest the symptoms are any worse.

But public health officials have urged members of the public who are feeling unwell to stay at home.

And doctors are reporting different symptoms exhibited than previous strains.

Although older Covid strains caused flu and cold like symptoms, the new strain to more closely linked to gastrointestinal issues.

This can lead to issues such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and heartburn.

Associate Professor and Virology Research Leader at Griffith University, Dr Lara Herrero, explained: “Common symptoms [of NB.1.8.1] include sore throat, fatigue, fever, mild cough, muscle aches and nasal congestion.”

She added that gastrointestinal issues may also occur in some cases.

The full list of symptoms of the new Covid variant have been outlined, with those suffering from them urged to stay home for 48 hours or until they feel better.

The first symptom is a high fever of 38C or above, including having chills or cold sweats.

A second symptom is a dry cough, a burning cough which can irritate your throat and requires lots of water to soothe.

Fatigue, tiredness, and a change to your sense of smell and taste are also among the symptoms.

Another indicator is a runny or blocked nose, a sore throat, or a headache.

Conjunctivitis, also called pink eye, is another symptom.

And having muscle of joint pain or an unusual rash could be a sign that you have the new strain.

Diziness, chills, and loss of appetite are also among the symptoms.

Lastly, shortness of breath, confusion, and pain or pressure in the chest could also be indicators that you have contracted the new strain.

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The new strain is ‘fast-spreading’[/caption]