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MyHealthChecked and NHS doctor Dr Dave Nichols warned there has been a “spike” in Pirola cases, but the true number is likely to be far higher.
As mandatory Covid testing is no more, there can be loads of Covid cases that go undetected.
“Winter always brings increased pressure on the NHS with an increasing number of respiratory illnesses seen,” said Dr Nichols.
“I expect this winter to be no different with the NHS and GPs doing all they can to be best prepared for the surge in respiratory illnesses.”
Dr Nichols said there isn’t enough data to know the impact Pirola will have this winter.
READ MORE… Everything you need to know about new Covid variant Pirola as new strain spreads
He said: “A key factor in this will be the severity of illness for affected individuals, however, the data for this is currently lacking.”
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) have said there is currently “not enough evidence” to know if the variant has altered the severity of the disease.
“In response to this, the UK has brought forward its autumn vaccine booster programme as a precautionary measure,” said Dr Nichols.
All eligible patients will be contacted by their GP and given information on how they can arrange to book their booster.
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Dr Nichols clarified: “GP practices will be inviting people in priority order of risk with those most vulnerable being vaccinated first.”
For those over the age of 65, who are concerned because they have not yet been invited for a booster, it’s worthwhile contacting your doctor’s practice.
Symptoms of Pirola
The symptoms of the Pirola variant remain much the same as other Covid strains, said Dr Nichols.
Symptoms of Pirola can include:
- Sore throat
- Runny or blocked nose
- Headache
- Cough
- Fever
- Fatigue.
“Asymptomatic or mild illness will understandably cause less problems than more severe disease,” added Dr Nichols.
How to protect yourself against Covid
Aside from vaccination, Dr Nichols advised to “remember hand washing and the basics of good hygiene”.
Additional measures include avoiding other people who are presenting with symptoms and enabling fresh air to circulate in your home.
MyHealthChecked at-home health and wellbeing tests are available online and in-store at Boots.
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