Coronavirus: 7 symptoms of the new COVID strain, as per reports

With the onset of the new strain of coronavirus, England has entered a state of chaos and turmoil. While the news of the vaccine roll out did raise a lot of hope amongst the people, the mutant virus has surely challenged that hope and has triggered another wave of fear and anxiety. Scientists and medical researchers are continuously working towards establishing the source of the new variant, however, nothing has been confirmed as of now. That said, besides the most common symptoms highlighted by the National Health Service (NHS), 7 other symptoms have been associated with the mutant strain.

The new variant of coronavirus named “VUI 202012/01” includes a genetic mutation in the “spike” protein that could be the cause of immediate and easy spread of the virus amongst people. This means, the variant that’s been identified in the south-east of England has 17 mutations that affect the shape of the virus, including the spike protein that gives the coronavirus family their name. While nothing further has been confirmed, scientists have suggested that this new strain could be the reason behind the faster spread of the virus.

Besides the three most common symptoms of COVID-19 such as fever, dry cough and loss of sense of smell and taste, 7 other symptoms have been associated with the new strain of coronavirus. Following are the signs you should watch out for.

- Fatigue

- Loss of appetite

- Headache

- Diarrhoea

- Mental confusion

- Muscle pains

- Skin rash.

According to a King's College researcher, "If you develop any symptoms that might be COVID-19, don't take a risk - you and your household must isolate immediately and ideally get a test as soon as possible."

While the United Kingdom has imposed a Tier 4 lockdown in many of the affected areas, other countries have blocked borders to contain the spread of the virus.

However, on an individual level, it is important that we self isolate ourselves, if and when we come in contact with an infected person. Apart from that, usual guidelines and precautionary measures are to be followed at all times.