A new strain of Covid has become the most common form of the virus in recent months across the globe and has notably brought on two new symptoms that people have reported experiencing.
It comes as the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention previously warned the JN.1 strain is spreading like wildfire in the UK as well as the US, Iceland, Portugal and Spain, and further afield with experts warning the latest variant could become a serious health issue.
The latest data from the the Office for National Statistics reported people suffering with the virus strain experienced trouble sleeping and anxiety aside from the usual Covid effects such as runny noses, coughs, sore throat, headaches and weakness.
A statement from the most recent update of the Winter Coronavirus Infection Study was reported by the Mirror, saying: “There has been an increase in prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 in England and Scotland during the two weeks leading up to 13 December 2023.”
Thomas Russo, professor and chief of infectious diseases at the University at Buffalo in New York, previously warned JN.1 could become more prevalent as time goes on.
He told Prevention.com: “There is some data that suggest JN.1’s parent BA.2.86 may be more transmissible than previous variants. Since JN.1 is a derivative of BA.2.86, there is a concern that it may be more transmissible.
“The updated vaccine is closer to JN.1 than our old vaccine, the hope is that, even if we see more cases with JN.1, the updated vaccine will protect against severe disease.”
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It was reported last month that millions of people who still haven’t come forward for their flu or Covid vaccine are at risk of becoming seriously ill as The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has urged Brits to “get winter strong” with infections set to rise.
Dr Mary Ramsay, of the UKHSA, said: “Nobody wants to miss out on the festive celebrations with their friends and family this winter and the vaccines provide the best protection.
“I urge all those eligible to join the millions of others who have taken up their free vaccine offer to get winter strong. Don’t put it off, book your appointment today and arm yourself against the risk of severe illness.”
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Sarah Carter is a health and wellness expert residing in the UK. With a background in healthcare, she offers evidence-based advice on fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being, promoting healthier living for readers.
