A GP has outlined the key Covid symptoms to spot right now as reports of two new variants emerge.
The first strain, known as HV.1, is an Omicron sub-variant that has gained dominance in the US, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Another new variant, JN.1, has recently been found in the UK, US, Iceland, Portugal and Spain.
The spin-off is a descendant of Pirola and has been described as much more immune evasive than its parents.
Despite the emergence of new Covid strains, Dr Roger Henderson, Leading Family GP and expert for Olbas, explained that the most predominant symptoms seem to remain the same.
He told Express.co.uk: “The more common symptoms, as have been with previous strains, are fevers, sore throats, and tiredness.
“However, there are other symptoms that commonly feature when people are dealing with Covid, these can include: muscle soreness, shortness of breath, and even nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea.”
Furthermore, the GP explained that patients with the virus may also experience congestion, leaving them feeling lethargic and contributing to shortness of breath.”
The doctor added: “When congested, although it may seem easier to say than do, it is important to try to breathe your nose.
“Breathing through your mouth can contribute to congestion, so trying to breathe through your nose will help to clear your sinuses.”
“The nose is a great filter in our body…it can also regulate the temperature of the air we breathe in, if you are unwell the air going into your body will be warmed and moisturised, protecting your nasal tissue and airways.”
The good news is that Dr Henderson shared that there are things you can do to get better quickly.
He recommended getting a proper rest and maintaining good hygiene for making a “swift” recovery. The GP added: “Whilst you are battling symptoms it is a good idea to refrain from going to work or socialising, this will minimise the spread by making sure you don’t infect others.
“To help ease the common symptoms of Covid you can use over-the-counter remedies such as Olbas for congestion, or Jakemans for a sore throat.”