As the country is returning back to its normal life, the virus is said to reappear. The new Covid strain is creating much of a hassle and panic among the citizens. As it was said that it is too early to claim that the storm had passed by, and the worst may be yet to come, the statement is slowly coming to reality.
The need for covid specialist doctors are increasing day-by-day, and amid the cases of new variants – SARS-CoV-2, it is important to know about this mutated virus and understand the difference in symptoms between the new variant and the old one.
As per the new studies, it is said that the UK variant or the Kent variant (B.1.1.7) is supposed to spread easily and faster than other variants, and it may be 70% more deadly and contagious than the previous strains.
The covid specialist doctors cited that people who are tested positive with this variant are more likely to suffer from a persistent cough, muscle aches, tiredness, fever and a sore throat as compared to the ones suffering from the original strain.
Let us understand how the original strain and the mutant strain differ –
- What are the classic symptoms of the new strain?
Similar to the previous one the new strain also show signs of –
- Dry cough
- Runny and stuffy nose
- Fever
- Aches and chills
- Sore throat
- Fatigue
- Loss of smell and taste
However, the symptoms are persistent and can continue to increase making the disease dangerous for the ones tested positive. Although the new coronavirus strain exhibits similar symptoms to the original variant, there are certain new symptoms to look out for such as discolouration of the fingers or toes, diarrhoea, aches and pains, conjunctivitis, skin rashes, sore throat and headache.
- How deadly is the new covid variant?
The new covid variant was discovered in the south-east of England and is said to cause more than one changes in the virus’s spike protein. The B.1.1.7 includes a genetic mutation in the spike protein that can lead to an immediate and easy spread of the virus amongst people. Besides, there have been several reports claiming that the mutated variant is more infectious than the original strain and might be responsible for the excessive hike in the number of covid cases in England. Furthermore, the new mutated strain has a higher than ever mortality rate and young people along with the high-risk groups are now at a risk as well. The most concerning fact about the new mutated variant is that it can affect treatment and prevention.
- When to seek medical attention?
Coronavirus is said to be an extremely tricky disease as it can be difficult to locate. With its wide range of and people showing no symptoms at all, it can be very difficult to diagnose covid on time. As the new mutated strain of Coronavirus is looming over our heads, it is now highly important to stay vigilant and alert so that one can contain the spread of the virus. Keeping in regular touch with a covid specialist doctor is now of prime importance. While many of the symptoms can also be treated at home, one may experience signs and difficulties that might require immediate medical attention.
One should look out for severe symptoms that can require immediate medical attention such as –
- Trouble in breathing
- Difficulty in staying awake
- Confusion
- Chest pain
In case you experience any of the above along with the classic covid symptoms it is advisable that you get yourself tested to be sure. These emergency signs can indicate if you would require medical help or not.
- How to deal?
If your symptoms range from mild to severe, and it is slowly worsening over time, get in touch with covid specialist doctor right away. Keep yourself isolated from others until you receive your covid test reports. If your symptoms show signs of emergency get yourself admitted to a covid-specialised hospital.
If tested positive, keep yourself away from others till the body defeats the virus and you are safe enough to not spread the disease. You may experience the symptoms for a week or two or even a month. During this time it is best to keep in touch with your doctor so that you can address emergencies as fast as possible.
Do not panic or spread panic as it would then affect everyone around you. Keep calm and continue to do what you love so that your body can find it easy to defeat the virus. Continue the medication and get yourself tested again after the course of medication completes.
Searching for a covid specialist doctor nearby?
Get in touch with Dr. Amitabha Saha today.
With more than 22 years of experience, Dr. Amitabha Saha has been successful in treating coronavirus and helping the ones tested positive. He is one of the leading doctors of Kolkata and has been treating the virus since last year.
Get in touch with him today to address all your concerns and treat yourself!