Doctor Warns: New COVID Variant Could Mimic Allergy Symptoms

A new strain of COVID-19, identified as "Nimbus" (scientifically known as NB.1.8.1), has recently spread across the nation, with a doctor highlighting its potential to be confused with hay fever due to similar symptoms. This development coincides with the dreaded hay fever season, potentially leading many to misattribute their illness to allergies rather than a COVID infection.

While the new variant may not be severe enough to trigger another lockdown, health officials note a roughly 10% increase in hospital admissions attributed to COVID-19, particularly impacting urban centers like Birmingham, London, and Manchester.

What is the New COVID Variant?

The NHS reported that in the final week of May, approximately 950 patients were hospitalized with Nimbus. The World Health Organization (WHO) has designated Nimbus as a "variant under monitoring," indicating that based on available data, the strain appears to be more severe than some previous variants. Research is ongoing to determine if Nimbus is also more contagious, as it is a close descendant and mutated form of earlier Omicron strains.

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Similarities Between COVID and Hay Fever Symptoms

Both hay fever and COVID-19 can present with symptoms such as sneezing, a runny nose, headaches, or a loss of smell. The key distinction, of course, is that one is an allergic reaction to pollen, while the other is a viral infection that can lead to more severe illness and prolonged recovery.

Dr. Luke Powles, Associate Clinical Director at Bupa, explained to The Sun that hay fever symptoms typically occur from March to September, overlapping significantly with the presence of new COVID strains. This overlap "can make it harder to tell if sniffs and sneezes are being caused by an allergy or an infection such as coronavirus," he stated.

How to Tell the Difference

The most crucial differentiating factor is the presence of a high temperature or fever, which is a common indicator of COVID-19 but not typically a symptom of hay fever. The NHS defines a fever as feeling "hot to touch on your chest or back," without necessarily requiring a temperature reading.

Dr. Powles further clarified that completely losing your ability to taste or smell is more indicative of coronavirus. While hay fever symptoms are generally mild and "aren't usually serious," COVID can leave individuals feeling significantly tired and exhausted. The long-term effects of COVID, known as "long Covid," can result in symptoms persisting for weeks or even months.

Other symptoms more commonly associated with COVID include exhaustion and body aches/chills, and it can also cause nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.

Experts advise the public to exercise caution if they are unsure about their symptoms. Lateral flow tests are still available at many pharmacies and can help determine if you have COVID. An NHS spokesperson advised, "If you’re unsure whether you’re suffering from hay fever or Covid, it’s wise to limit contact with others, especially those who are vulnerable."