Unveiling the Eris Variant: 12 Common Symptoms of the EG.5 COVID-19 Strain
Amidst the declining global threat of COVID-19, a new variant known as EG.5, or the Eris strain, has emerged. While this variant has been found in several countries including China, the US, Japan, South Korea, Canada, Australia, Singapore, UK, France, Portugal, and Spain, experts assure us that the severity of the disease remains relatively low. Although the World Health Organization (WHO) designates EG.5 as a variant of interest, it is not considered more dangerous than existing strains like Omicron. Let’s delve into the key details of this emerging variant.
The Eris Variant: An Overview
The Eris variant, labelled EG.5, has been identified as a newer form of the COVID-19 virus. It has gained attention due to its rapid spread in countries such as the United States and the UK. While the variant is causing an uptick in cases and hospitalizations, health authorities emphasize that it does not pose a major threat when compared to earlier strains. Although Eris has immune escaping properties and spreads quickly, its symptoms are mostly mild, resembling those of previous Omicron subvariants.
Symptoms of Eris: What to Look For
Dr. Rajesh Kumar, a Senior Consultant in Internal Medicine at Paras Health in Gurugram, explains that the symptoms of Eris are less severe than those of the Omicron subvariant. He reassures that even though the symptoms might seem familiar, they are not as intense and do not put individuals at high risk.
Dr. Manisha Arora, a Senior Consultant and Unit Head in Internal Medicine at Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute in Delhi, elaborates on the symptoms associated with Eris. This subvariant, also known as XBB.1.9.2, shares similarities with other COVID-19 variants.
Here are the 12 common symptoms to be aware of:
Fever: An elevated body temperature above 100.4°F (38°C) is a typical indicator.
Cough: A persistent dry cough may occur continuously or intermittently.
Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing, especially during physical activity, can manifest.
Fatigue: Unusual tiredness or lack of energy might persist even after rest.
Muscle or Body Aches: Ranging from mild to severe discomfort, muscle and body aches are common.
Sore Throat: Irritation, pain, or scratchiness in the throat can be experienced.
Congestion or Runny Nose: Nasal congestion or a runny nose, akin to a mild cold, may be present.
Headache: Inflammation of the lining of the brain and nerves can lead to headaches.
Malaise: A general sense of feeling unwell, characterized by tiredness, weakness, or run-down sensations.
Loss of Smell: Damage to the smell-detecting cells in the nose might result in a loss of smell.
Diarrhea: Loose, watery stools caused by inflammation of the intestinal lining.
Abdominal Pain: Discomfort in the stomach area arising from various factors like inflammation or muscle pain.
Insights from Dr. Devashish Desai
Dr. Devashish Desai, an Infectious Diseases Consultant at Ruby Hall Clinic in Pune, provides additional insights into the symptoms of the Eris variant. Notably, most symptomatic patients experience fever accompanied by upper respiratory symptoms such as a runny nose, sore throat, and cough. Headaches, malaise, body aches, and a loss of smell are also common. Dr. Desai further notes that severe cases might involve shortness of breath, although this symptom may appear after a patient has already become hypoxic.
Eris: Notable Aspects
While the Eris variant is spreading relatively quickly and possesses immune escaping properties, experts maintain that its symptoms are generally mild. Though its symptoms resemble those of previous strains, the severity of these symptoms is notably lower. In India, where the variant has made limited appearances, health officials are closely monitoring the situation. To ensure timely treatment, it’s crucial for individuals experiencing any of the aforementioned symptoms to undergo immediate COVID-19 testing.
In the ever-evolving landscape of COVID-19, understanding emerging variants like Eris is essential. As researchers and health authorities continue to study these variants, it is vital for individuals to remain vigilant and follow recommended preventive measures. By staying informed and taking appropriate precautions, we can collectively contribute to the ongoing effort to curb the spread of the virus and protect public health.
In summary, the Eris variant, also known as EG.5, presents a new chapter in the COVID-19 saga. While its rapid spread has caught the attention of health officials worldwide, its symptoms remain milder than previous strains. By recognizing these symptoms and seeking prompt testing and treatment, individuals can play a proactive role in safeguarding their health and the health of their communities.