The World Health Organization (WHO) has recently designated “Eris” as a variant of interest and is urging countries worldwide to closely monitor its progression as cases continue to rise.
Eris, scientifically known as the EG.5.1 strain of coronavirus, has emerged as the second most predominant variant in the United Kingdom, trailing only behind Arcturus.
Despite its rapid spread, the WHO has emphasized that Eris poses a low level of risk to public health.
Current data does not indicate that it leads to more severe illnesses compared to other circulating variants.
Notably, its symptoms include a sore throat, runny nose, and headache.
Eris traces its lineage to Omicron, which was initially classified as a variant in the UK on July 31.
Global Presence and Impact
Eris has made its presence known across various regions, spanning Europe, Asia, and North America.
Within the UK, while there has been a surge in cases, the overall number of hospital admissions remains notably low.
Nonetheless, vigilance is paramount, as identifying symptoms promptly ensures the protection of both ourselves and those around us, particularly individuals who might be more susceptible.
Recognizing and Managing Eris Variant Symptoms
The symptoms associated with the Eris variant encompass a range of discomforts:
– Sore throat
– Runny nose
– Blocked nose
– Dry cough
– Wet cough
– Hoarse voice
– Muscle aches
– Altered smell
It’s important to note that these symptoms often resemble those of other common illnesses such as colds and the flu.
For most individuals, recovery is expected within a few days or weeks after the onset of Covid-19 symptoms, with a complete recuperation period of around 12 weeks.
However, some people may experience a more prolonged and severe form of the illness.
If you exhibit Covid symptoms, the NHS advises staying home and minimizing contact with others.
Covid-19 Testing Updates in Wales
In Wales, most individuals are no longer eligible for free Covid-19 testing.
However, testing remains accessible for specific groups, including those recommended for new Covid-19 treatments.
NHS patients categorized as high-risk for Covid-19 due to various medical conditions can receive Covid-19 treatment at home.
The high-risk group encompasses individuals with:
– Immune system-affecting chromosomal disorders like Down’s syndrome
– Certain types of cancer or recent cancer-related treatments
– Sickle cell disease
– Blood-related conditions or recipients of a haematological stem cell transplant
– Advanced stages of chronic kidney disease (CKD)
– Severe liver disease
– Organ transplant recipients
– Autoimmune or inflammatory conditions with specific medications
– HIV or AIDS
– Rare neurological conditions
Those within the aforementioned groups should maintain rapid lateral flow tests (LFTs) at home and take a test at the onset of Covid-19 symptoms.
Testing and Management Protocol
If you qualify for new Covid-19 treatments, you are entitled to free tests as prescribed by a medical professional.
Should your initial test return negative but symptoms persist, subsequent tests on the following days, typically days two and three, are recommended.
If all tests are negative during this period, it’s likely that you do not have Covid-19.
For individuals ineligible for free LFTs, testing options are available for purchase from various retailers, including Boots, LloydsPharmacy, Superdrug, Well Pharmacy, Sainsbury’s, and Morrisons.
Single tests generally cost around £2 to £2.50 each, while multipacks of five tests range from £6 to £10.