Symptoms of the new COVID variant

While the world was already in a state of turmoil with COVID-19 disrupting the lives of millions of people all across the globe, the new COVID strain that emerged in the United Kingdom, added to the pre-existing panic and chaos in and around the world.

In their initial research, scientists and medical professionals claimed that the mutant virus was more dangerous and more likely to spread faster than the original variant.

In addition to that, a recent report has listed down some of the most common symptoms of the new COVID strain.

UK COVID variant: What is it?

The new coronavirus variant that was first identified in the south-east of England is said to cause one or more changes in the virus's spike protein. This, according to the UK scientists, has been correlated with a significant increase in SARS-CoV-2 infections in the United Kingdom. The mutant virus, named “VUI 202012/01” and lineage B.1.1.7, includes a genetic mutation in the “spike” protein that could be the cause of immediate and easy spread of the virus amongst people.

Most common symptoms of the new COVID variant

According to the latest reports by the Office for National Statistics (ONS), Cough, sore throat, muscle pain and fatigue are some of the most common symptoms of the new COVID strain.

The researchers at ONS conducted a survey, wherein they asked a number of people - who had tested positive for COVID-19 between 15th November to 16 January - about their symptoms. That said, patients infected with the mutant virus showed more symptoms throughout the process.

As per their report, "The largest differences in reported symptoms between the new variant compatible positives and those not compatible with the new UK variant were found in cough, sore throat, fatigue and myalgia or joint pain."

How are the symptoms of the new strain virus different from the original variant?

Considering the rise in the number of cases since the outbreak of the new COVID strain, it is only natural to assume the severity of the situation. As per reports, the number of infected cases across the UK increased by more than 50 per cent between November 29 and December 13.

While the UK strain of COVID-19 is said to be more deadlier than the original strain, ONS reports have also suggested some of the differences in the kind of symptoms faced by individuals testing positive for the new strain.

The researchers pointed out that people infected with the new COVID variant were less likely to develop a loss of sense of smell, which is one of the most prevalent symptoms in the original strain.

However, according to the reports, "There was no evidence of difference in the percentages reporting gastrointestinal symptoms."