A new Covid strain, known as Stratus, has been circulating in the different countries in recent weeks, making up a significant share of new infections.
Experts warn that its symptoms can resemble those of other seasonal illnesses, which makes testing crucial.
A new strain emerges
Stratus was first detected earlier this year and has already been placed on the World Health Organisation’s watchlist due to its rapid spread.
Hoarseness as an early warning sign
Pharmacists and doctors have noted that a sudden hoarse voice has appeared in many cases before people test positive for the Stratus variant, making it one of its distinctive early features.
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Variants affecting the throat
Different variants have been linked to different throat-related issues.
The Nimbus variant was known for causing severe throat pain, while Stratus appears to be more closely linked with hoarseness.
Other possible causes of hoarseness
A hoarse voice can also result from colds, flu, allergies, vocal strain, smoking, alcohol, or irritation from dust and fumes.
This means testing remains the most reliable way to confirm whether Covid is the cause.
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The 12 recognised symptoms
The NHS continues to list 12 common symptoms of Covid: high temperature or chills, continuous cough, loss or change of taste or smell, shortness of breath, fatigue, body aches, headache, sore throat, blocked or runny nose, loss of appetite, diarrhoea, and nausea or vomiting.
When to seek medical advice
Persistent or worsening hoarseness lasting more than two to four weeks, especially if accompanied by breathing difficulties, pain, coughing up blood or unexplained weight loss, should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Symptoms can worsen at night
Doctors warn that wheezing and airway irritation linked to Covid and other respiratory illnesses may be worse at night, particularly in young children, due to relaxed airways during sleep.
Lower vaccine protection
Researchers suggest Stratus may evade the immune system more effectively, even in those previously infected, making updated vaccines increasingly important.
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What to do if you feel unwell
If you have a high temperature or feel too unwell to carry out daily activities, you should stay at home if possible and avoid contact with vulnerable individuals.
Reducing transmission
If staying home is not possible, wear a well-fitted mask, avoid crowded indoor spaces, exercise outdoors, practise good hand hygiene and cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
Testing remains key
Since symptoms such as hoarseness can overlap with other illnesses, taking a Covid test is the only way to know for sure.
This article is based on information from The Sun.
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