COVID-19's latest variant, dubbed "Pirola" or BA.2.86, has made its presence known in Germany, following its identification in Israel. Since then, it's spread to Europe, with confirmed cases reported in the UK, Denmark, and Portugal by the World Health Organization. In Germany, the Robert Koch Institute has reported three confirmed cases of "Pirola," with individuals hailing from various federal states.
Now, let's discuss the warning signs of this variant. Traditional COVID-19 symptoms include a cough, nasal congestion, sore throat, hoarseness, fever, and a loss of smell. These symptoms can vary based on the illness's severity. Additionally, other signs of the disease may present themselves, such as shortness of breath, skin rash, or nausea.
Citing data from the ZOE Health Study in the UK, the British newspaper ChronicleLive has identified potential new "Pirola" symptoms, including:
- Headaches;
- Fatigue;
- Sore throat;
- Hoarseness;
- Sneezing.
Enriching our knowledge with this study, we've also discovered other potential Pirola symptoms, which are less common but worth noting:
- Itching and redness in the eyes;
- Pain in the fingers or toes;
- Changes in the mouth or tongue, such as swelling or ulcers on the tongue or inside the lips;
- Diarrhea;
- Skin rash.
To protect yourself during the fall and winter, when the risk of infection increases due to indoor activities, the German Standing Committee on Vaccination recommends receiving a new COVID-19 vaccine. While Biontech's vaccine has been adapted to new variants, it remains unclear if it is effective against "Pirola." In the event of infection, RKI advises individuals to isolate for approximately three to five days to prevent the virus from spreading.
In light of the emerging new symptoms, it's essential to prioritize your health and maintain a balanced diet, exercise regularity, and adequate sleep to boost your immune system and resist infections like "Pirola."
