New Covid Variants in the UK: What You Need to Know This Autumn
If your throat feels like you’ve been swallowing razor blades and your temperature’s climbing, you’re not alone. Covid is making a comeback in the UK this autumn, with new variants showing up — names like XFG (Stratus) and NB.1.8.1 (Nimbus) are floating around.
So what’s actually going on, and how worried should you be? Let’s break it down.
Are the New Variants More Dangerous?
Health officials, including the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), say there’s no solid evidence these new strains make people sicker than the older ones. Vaccines are still offering strong protection against serious illness and hospitalisation.
That said, these variants have picked up some genetic changes that may make them spread more easily. Think of it as the virus switching up its wardrobe — new look, same tricks.
What Symptoms Should You Look Out For?
The “classic” Covid symptoms are still around:
- Fever
- Cough
- Headache
- Runny or blocked nose
- Exhaustion
But many people are reporting sore throats that feel especially harsh — scratchy, painful, sometimes leaving your voice croaky. For some, it feels like swallowing glass.
Bottom line: if it feels worse than your usual cold and flu, it could be Covid.
Testing and Vaccines in the UK
- Covid tests are no longer free for most people. You can buy them in pharmacies if you need one.
- Vaccines: The NHS is offering free Covid jabs to people over 75 and other higher-risk groups this season. Private clinics and some pharmacies also offer vaccines, though prices can be steep (around £99 in some cases).
- Yes, reinfections happen. You can catch Covid again even if you had it last month. Usually, symptoms are milder, but you can still pass it on.
What About RSV and Flu?
Covid isn’t the only virus making the rounds. Doctors are also flagging RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) and seasonal flu as concerns this winter, especially for young children and older adults. The advice? Don’t focus only on Covid — keep an eye out for other bugs too.
What You Can Do Right Now
- Stay home if you’re sick, especially around vulnerable people.
- Wear a mask in crowded indoor places if you have to go out.
- Wash your hands often, bin tissues straight away.
- Soothe sore throats with honey, warm drinks, and plenty of water.
Final Takeaway
Covid is still with us, but it’s not all doom and gloom. Vaccines continue to protect against severe illness, and most people who catch the new variants will feel like they’ve got a nasty cold or flu.
If you’re eligible, get your jab. And if you’re under the weather, take it seriously — rest up, protect others, and remember: viruses may keep changing outfits, but the basics of protecting yourself haven’t changed.