How To Protect Yourself From Covid
There are reports that the latest COVID variant is sweeping the UK with some hospitals feeling the strain. Experts have provided details of how to protect yourself against COVID and what to look out for.
The emergence of the Pirola strain, also known as the BA.2.86 variant, has caused a surge in Covid-19 cases across the United Kingdom. To combat the spread of this new variant, it is crucial to take extra precautions and follow the guidance provided by healthcare professionals.
There are reports that four wards in a hospital in Manchester are full of COVID cases, and now hospitals around the UK including in Grimsby, Liverpool, Lincoln, Hull, Birmingham, Scunthorpe, London, Boston, and Lancaster are expecting more admissions of Covid cases.
Dr Renu Bindra, Incident Director at UKHSA said that while Pirola has “a significant number of mutations”, the data is still limited to draw conclusions on its impact. The doctor explained: “While BA.2.86 has a significant number of mutations to the viral genome compared to other currently circulating COVID-19 variants, the data so far is too limited to draw firm conclusions about the impact this will have on the transmissibility, severity or immune escape properties of the virus.
“UKHSA scientists are working with international partners to culture the samples and analyse the evidence as it becomes available. However, it is likely to be some time before we have enough data to make a confident assessment. Specialists from UKHSA have been working with Norfolk County Council to offer infection control advice and support following a confirmed outbreak of BA.2.86 in a care home.
“It is clear that there is some degree of widespread community transmission, both in the UK and globally, and we are working to ascertain the full extent of this. In the meantime, it remains vital that all those eligible come forward to receive their autumn vaccine as soon as it is offered to them.”
Symptoms of Pirola Covid variant:
   Fever
   Aches and pains
   Continuous cough
   Changes in taste and/or smell
   Tiredness
   Runny nose
   Sore throat
How To Protect Yourself from COVID
- Wear a Face Mask
Although face masks are no longer mandatory, they remain an effective tool in preventing the spread of the virus, especially in crowded or enclosed spaces. Dr. Hana Patel, a GP and Medico-Legal Expert Witness, explains that face coverings help by capturing small droplets that may contain the virus when we talk or cough. By wearing a face mask, you significantly reduce the risk of spreading the virus to others nearby. Studies have shown that the risk of transmission can be as high as 70% if individuals with Covid-19 do not wear a face covering. However, if you wear a face mask, the risk drops significantly.
- Get Your Booster Jab
The autumn Covid booster vaccine rollout has been accelerated to provide additional protection against the Pirola strain. The booster jab helps to safeguard against severe illness, hospitalizations, and deaths caused by the virus. If you are eligible for the booster, it is crucial to come forward and get vaccinated. Last year, individuals who received the autumn booster vaccine were 53% less likely to be hospitalized with Covid in the two to four weeks following vaccination. The following groups are eligible for the Covid booster jab:
   Residents in care homes for older adults
   All adults aged 65 years and over
   People aged 6 months to 64 years in a clinical risk group
   Frontline health and social care workers
   People aged 12 to 64 years who are household contacts of individuals with immunosuppression
   People aged 16 to 64 years who are carers
   Staff working in care homes for older adults
If you fall into one of these categories, you will receive an invitation from the NHS to book your booster appointment through the National Booking Service. It is crucial to prioritize getting your booster jab to enhance your protection against the latest Covid variant.
- Practice Good Respiratory Hygiene
Another essential measure to prevent the spread of the Pirola variant is to practice good respiratory hygiene. This includes covering your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze. The UK Health Security Agency emphasizes the importance of using tissues that can be disposed of after use. By covering your nose and mouth, you can prevent the spread of respiratory droplets that may contain the virus. It is also crucial to wash your hands regularly and clean frequently touched surfaces, such as door handles, keyboards, and kitchen countertops.
In addition to these three key measures, it is crucial to stay informed about the latest guidance from healthcare professionals and government authorities. Regularly check for updates on Covid-19 precautions and follow any additional recommendations provided by local health departments. By taking these precautions and staying informed, you can protect yourself and others from the latest Covid variant.
Covid Variant Protection
As the Pirola variant continues to spread across the United Kingdom, it is vital to take extra precautions to protect yourself and others from the virus. Wearing a face mask, getting your booster jab, and practicing good respiratory hygiene are three key measures you can take to minimize the risk of transmission. By following these guidelines and staying informed about the latest developments, we can collectively combat the spread of the latest Covid variant and keep ourselves and our communities safe.
Additional Information: The Pirola variant, also known as the BA.2.86 variant, has raised concerns due to its 34 new mutations, potentially enabling it to evade immunity and vaccines more easily. The Government has accelerated the autumn vaccine rollout to mitigate the impact of this variant. It is essential to follow local guidelines and stay updated on vaccination eligibility criteria.
It is important that when people are offered the new booster vaccine that they take up the offer. The Government are concerned that people are not coming forward to have the vaccine. In Skegness only 71.2% of people have had the 3rd booster jab.
