Nearly two years after the first wave of Omicron, a new Covid-19 variant known as Pirola – or BA.2.86 – has been detected across 15 countries, including the UK.
The variant appeared at the beginning of the summer and apparently has 34 mutations, which is what is causing concern among experts. So many variations could mean the virus is less susceptible to vaccines.
So far, cases in the UK have been reported in London, north England and at a care home in east England. Seven people have been hospitalised, but no one has died from contracting Pirola and the number of people being transferred to intensive care is low. There are currently 37 people in the UK who have contracted this strain of the virus.
In a bid to combat its spread, the winter vaccine programme has been brought forward in England by the NHS, so here is everything you need to know about this new Covid variant and how to book your booster vaccine.
What are the Pirola Covid symptoms to look out for?
The ZOE Health Study released a list of five main symptoms to look out for, which are a runny nose, headache, fatigue (mild or severe), sneezing and a sore throat.
What do experts say?
As testing for the virus has been scaled back and you now have to pay for tests, scientists are saying the virus is harder to track. Professor Kao from the University of Edinburgh has called for a return of free lateral-flow test kits, particularly within the context of the cost of living crisis.
How to get a Covid booster jab?
The NHS will contact those who are eligible, and people in England will be able to book online, via the app or by calling 119 from September 18.
Who is eligible for a Covid booster?
As of the NHS’s most recent announcement, those being encouraged to book now are people over the age of 65, and people at high-risk, including care homes residents, frontline health workers and anyone in a clinical risk group. You can check if you’re eligible via the NHS website.
Are cases rising in the UK?
Thirty-seven cases have been recorded this week in England, which is three more than last week. None of the new cases are understood to be related to recent travel, meaning the variant is likely spreading. So far, there is no evidence to suggest this variant is any more harmful.
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