Doctor explains how you know you're getting sick with new Covid variant as 'Stratus' strain spreads globally

As a new strain of Covid makes its way across the UK, a doctor has pointed out the signs to look out for that show you're getting sick with this variant of the virus.

That's right, we're well and truly into that time of the year when everyone is coming down with something, whether that's a stuffy head cold, a very annoying cough that just won't budge, or a fever that warrants a day or two off work.

While the common cold and flu are usually the biggest culprits as the cold, dark nights draw in, it seems as if Covid-19 isn't a distant memory of 2020.

Coronavirus is still very much around, so much so that a new strain called 'Stratus' is making up for a large proportion of new cases here in the UK and other parts of the world.

What is the Stratus strain of Covid?

Stratus has two variants, known as XFG and XFG.3, with the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) noting how this is one of the two most common variants at the moment, alongside a strain called Nimbus (NB.1.8.1).

Stratus is expected to spread fast, which won't be helped by the changing weather and people staying indoors more, and there are symptoms to look out for if you want to know if you're unlucky enough to be struck down with it.

Explaining what to look out for is Dr Sami, who often takes to TikTok to share advice on all things health and, in this instance, Covid.

What are the symptoms of the Stratus variant?

Dr Sami explained in his video that the symptoms of the Stratus actually differ from previous variants of Covid, with the first ones to look out for being ear, nose and throat symptoms.

"Most people are complaining of a really hoarse voice, or a super sore throat," the doctor said.

He then explained it also presents with 'GI symptoms', which include nausea, vomiting, bloating and acid reflux.

Stratus is also more contagious, which means you need to be regularly washing your hands, keeping your home clean and ventilated, opting to wear facemasks in crowded public spaces, and staying at home if you're feeling unwell.

However, there is somewhat of a silver lining, as Dr Sami explained that from what he's seen so far, this variant seems to cause a milder infection compared to the previous variants, and there seem to be fewer hospitalisations overall.

Is there a vaccine for the Stratus variant?

According to the doctor, a new 'winter Covid' vaccine is being rolled out on October 1, and appointments can be booked via the NHS website.

However, this vaccine is only eligible for people who are either over the age of 75, are immunocompromised because of a health condition or treatment, or are living in a care home for older adults.

The UKHSA is also urging people to book vaccinations against not only Covid, but also flu and another common winter virus called RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) as cases start to increase ahead of the cold winter months.