by There is now a new strain of Covid-19 that has become a cause for concern: CH.1.1, nicknamed ‘Orthrus’. This strain arises after XBB.1.5, also known as “Kraken,” which is now dominant in the United States of America (US), accounts for about 61% of cases, according to federal health data.
CH.1.1, a new sub-variant of Ómicron, is expected to become one of the dominant strains in the UK, with a large number of cases already reported across the country. As of January 14, Orthrus was present in 36.1% of all Covid-19 tests analyzed in England, according to data from the Sanger Institute, one of the UK’s largest surveillance sites that analyzes the different strains.
“CH.1.1 is becoming more common and is one of two new strains likely to become the most prevalent in the UK, according to the UK Health Safety Authority (UKHSA),” the Asda Online doctor revealed Doctor Kathryn Basford added: “The other sub-variant in the Omicron family – XBB.1.5 – has been identified as a possible new dominant strain, but although it has spread rapidly in the US, levels in the UK are still very low.”
This strain has a worrying common mutation with the Delta variant that could make it dangerous. Although CH.1.1 is not a ‘Deltacron’ – a combination of Delta and Omicron – it is an excellent example of convergent evolution, a process in which variants of the coronavirus evolve independently but receive the same mutations.
How to identify CH.1.1?
Being able to recognize the symptoms can help you spot Orthrus quickly. sore throat, nrunny nose, congestion and cough are some of the signs of infection, according to pharmacist Pharmacy2U Duncan Reid. “Since the variant comes from a similar lineage to the Kraken and Ómicron, it is possible that the initial symptoms are similar to those of a cold,” Reid explained.
Loss of appetite, nausea, back pain and shortness of breath may also be part of the symptoms, as well as sneezing, headaches, muscle aches and a weaker sense of smell, as with other Omicron strains. “While it should be clear that not all cases of nausea or back pain will be linked to Covid-19, people would be wise to be aware of these possible symptoms,” he warned. the pharmacist pointing out: “Although the symptoms of CH.1.1 are currently no more severe than those previously caused by the same subvariant, the virus can be unpleasant.’
“If you notice a sore throat or flu-like symptoms, then it’s best to get tested,” he advised. Reid adds: “Make sure you drink plenty of water, get plenty of rest if you get the virus and take pain medication if you need it.”
What can be done to limit the spread of this subvariable?
- Avoid touching eyes, nose or mouth if hands are not clean
- Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer regularly throughout the day
- Make sure you have up-to-date vaccinations
- Limit the number of people you meet and avoid crowded places
- While wearing a mask is no longer necessary, wearing a mask can help stop the spread.
- If you have symptoms, avoid contact with other people, especially those who are most vulnerable to the virus.
Although CH.1.1 carries the risk of being more virulent than the other subvariants that have appeared so far, it does not appear to be more serious.
