Pirola, a new Covid strain is currently spiking in the UK, is cause for concern. Experts explain how serious it is, what the symptoms are and if there could be a return to restrictions
For many of us life has returned to how it was before the pandemic. We can go to work, attend big events and fly abroad – even if we are feeling the cost of living squeeze. However, the horrible truth is that Covid is still prevalent in society and is a silent killer living among us. A Zoe Health study estimates there are currently 1.2million people in the UK who are infected with coronavirus, roughly one in 57 people.
The disease is constantly evolving and a new Covid variant has hit the UK, with cases of the Pirola Omicron rising across the country. As of September 17 there were 42 recorded cases of Pirola, scientifically called BA.2.86, and the virus has caused concern as it has 35 mutations, which makes it difficult to protect against. There have also been seven hospitalisations as a result, but how dangerous is the new and what should we do to protect from it? Here is what the experts have to say…
Dr Hana Patel, an NHS GP and Medico-Legal Expert Witness, explains, “The research that’s come out is saying that it’s one to watch because people have been hospitalised from it and because it’s got a new mutation which means that it’s evading people’s immune system, and making them unwell.”
Although there have only been seven hospital admissions so far, Hana says that these are likely those who are vulnerable. “It tends to be people who have other health related issues, so you know, pre existing lung problems, or heart issues, or a suppressed immune system where they’re more likely to become unwell if they were to get COVID,” she says.