By Lauren Haughey

Copyright dailyrecord

A doctor of biomedical science has shed light on two coronavirus variants , addressing concerns about their spread and symptoms . The Stratus strain has two variants, XFG and XFG.3, which were first identified in January this year. By June, the World Health Organisation had classified XFG as ‘under monitoring’, citing a rise in cases worldwide. Then, by September 3, the UK Health Security Agency reported a 7.1% increase in coronavirus cases across England compared with seven days earlier, but it is unclear how many are affected by the XFG strain. So, what actually are the XFG and XFG.3 bugs, and how do they compare to the previous coronavirus strains we’ve witnessed over the past five years? Dr Gareth Nye from the University of Salford shared his thoughts on the matter. Dr Nye suggests that Stratus is thought to have originated from the Omicron variant of the original coronavirus. Although it was given extensive coverage over the summer, it was first detected in January and has since seen a rise in reported cases. Now, Stratus has surpassed other versions of the disease, becoming the most prevalent form in many locations. However, variants of this type are nothing new, as illnesses are constantly evolving over time. “Probably best to start with the fact that coronavirus has now seemingly settled into a seasonal illness now along the same lines as flus, which was always likely,” Dr Nye said. “As immunity from vaccines wears off and new variations spread, we will see upticks in coronavirus cases. Variants of diseases are also nothing new, there are nearly 150 variants of the ‘flu’ virus, for example.” Most people are aware that high temperatures, a persistent cough, and loss of smell or taste are among the typical symptoms of coronavirus. XFG and XFG.3 are thought to cause symptoms almost identical to these, although sore throats and a hoarse voice may be more severe. Dr Nye went on: “In most ways, it’s almost identical. However, people with this version tend to get very sore throats and a hoarse voice, compared with the other more general symptoms like cough, temperature and aches. Illnesses always see spikes as children go back to school, as close contact and often lower personal hygiene levels mix. “This version is more likely to make you sick, however, as they appear to be able to avoid your immune system even if you’ve had it before. [This] makes prior vaccines less useful, which makes regular vaccination against the latest coronavirus even more important. “Think of it like updating your phone to get the best possible experience.” Although coronavirus has become a highly prevalent illness, Dr Nye emphasised that it’s still crucial to take precautions. Anyone aged 65 and over, babies, and adults with pre-existing medical conditions or weakened immune systems are at a higher risk of more severe complications from coronavirus. So, if you think you might be ill with any form of coronavirus, it’s crucial to get tested and self-isolate. Dr Nye summarised: “Although coronavirus is now a very common disease, it is still dangerous to a large percentage of the population. “And so, if you think you have coronavirus, testing and isolation should still take place, the same advice applies if you have any illness.” Further information about coronavirus is available at the NHS website .