New Covid variant known as XEC is spreading rapidly across Europe.The strain was first detected in Germany in June and has now been found in 15 different countries.Medics have warned that the strain "is just getting started" and have urged anyone experiencing a new, continuous cough, a loss of appetite or a blocked or runny nose in the coming weeks to stay at home.The measures will be precautionary steps to help prevent the spread of any infection to family and friends.
The latest figures for the UK show a 4.3% increase in Covid cases week on week.The NHS website now states Brits should "try to stay at home and avoid contact with other people if you or your child have symptoms."Symptoms are similar to previous strains including:The NHS stresses while it is important to take caution, any or a combination of the above symptoms may not necessarily mean you've got coronavirus.
They may be signs of another infection or disease, or nothing relatively serious at all.But self-isolating - again - will help stop the potential spread of Covid.
It is an important measure to prevent others, especially the vulnerable, being struck down with the unpleasant variant.Doctors also say Brits should keep up to date with vaccines and booster shots.