Alarm over 'most contagious new variant' of coronavirus: Are masks making a comeback?

The coronavirus pandemic, which emerged in the Chinese city of Wuhan and took the world under its influence, caused many people to lose their lives and led to lockdowns.

Although the days of quarantine and mask mandates are behind us, new variants of the virus continue to emerge.

Recently, "very high" levels of the SARS-CoV-2 virus have been observed in wastewater across 21 states in the US.

According to a report by NTV, experts have stated that the increase in coronavirus infections this summer is higher than in the same period of 2023.

TWO NEW VARIANTS ON THE RISE

The increase in summer travel and indoor activities due to high temperatures has led to a surge in two new variants (KP.3 and KP.3.1.1), which now account for more than 50 percent of cases.

Data shows that coronavirus cases are at very high levels in at least 21 U.S. states.

ALARM OVER MOST CONTAGIOUS VARIANT

Experts at the University of California stated regarding the new variants, "You have a very, very contagious variant, probably one of the most contagious we've had."

It was noted that because a long time has passed since the coronavirus pandemic, people are getting tested less, making it difficult to detect the disease.

DIFFICULT TO DISTINGUISH SYMPTOMS

Experts have issued warnings that paying attention to symptoms is more important than ever.

It is difficult to distinguish coronavirus symptoms from other respiratory diseases.

If you have upper respiratory symptoms—such as a runny nose and congestion—or a cough, there is a high probability that you have contracted the coronavirus.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF CORONAVIRUS?

In individuals who have had a coronavirus infection at least once or are up to date with their vaccinations, symptoms can often resemble those of a common cold or other respiratory illnesses.

Common coronavirus symptoms include:

Runny nose

Fatigue and muscle aches

Sore throat

Cough

Mild fever

Nausea or diarrhea

Doctors state that there is no single distinct symptom that points to Covid, so the only way to be sure is to get tested.

WHEN SHOULD YOU GET TESTED?

Experts recommend getting tested approximately five days after symptoms appear, as it takes a long time for the virus to become detectable in the body.

Some individuals may show symptoms one or two days after encountering the virus.

The reason for this is not that the virus grows faster, but that the immune system recognizes the virus and responds symptomatically.