New Covid Variants FLiRT and LB.1 Symptoms: What You Need to Know

 Worried about the new FLiRT and LB.1 Covid variants? Learn about the symptoms, how they differ from previous strains, and when to see a doctor.

With summer in full swing, reports of flu-like illnesses are popping up everywhere. And for good reason – new Covid variants, FLiRT and LB.1,are making their rounds. This can be scary, especially considering the past few years. But fret not! Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know about these new variants, their symptoms, and whether you should be worried.

Not Your Grandma’s Covid:

First, let’s breathe a sigh of relief. Doctors like Dr. Xand van Tulleken emphasize that Covid is a whole different ball game now. Widespread vaccination and prior infections have given most of us some level of immunity. This means these new variants, while contagious, are unlikely to cause serious illness for a large portion of the population.

The government has even scaled back its vaccination program significantly, reflecting this shift. While there has been a slight uptick in hospital admissions, it’s important to remember this is from a much lower baseline compared to previous waves.

So, what about these symptoms?

Frightening coughs and sniffles might have you reaching for the tissues, but Dr. van Tulleken reminds us that a cough, on its own, isn’t necessarily a cause for panic. Many things can cause a cough, and most often they clear up on their own.

However, there are some red flag symptoms you should watch out for. If you experience any of these, it’s best to play it safe and see your doctor:

• Chest pain: This is a big one. Chest pain can indicate a more serious condition and shouldn’t be ignored.
• Difficulty breathing: Similarly, struggling to catch your breath is a red flag.
• Coughing up blood: Any blood present in your coughs needs to be checked out by a doctor.
• Swollen and painful neck: This could be a sign of an infection that requires medical attention.

But what about the new variants? What are their symptoms?

The good news is, the symptoms of FLiRT and LB.1 are quite similar to those of earlier Covid strains. They fall under the umbrella of flu-like symptoms, which can include:

• Cough: A persistent cough can be a symptom of Covid, but also other illnesses.
• Fatigue: Feeling tired and run down is a drag, and can be caused by Covid or other factors.
• Loss of taste or smell: This was a hallmark symptom of earlier Covid strains, but may be less common with these new variants.
• Sore throat: A scratchy or painful throat can be a bother, and could be a sign of Covid.
• Muscle or body aches: Feeling achy all over is a common complaint with many illnesses, including Covid.
• Shortness of breath: Difficulty breathing is a serious symptom and warrants a visit to the doctor.
• Headache: Headaches can be caused by dehydration, stress, and a variety of other things, including Covid.
• Runny nose: A runny nose is a common cold symptom, but can also be present with Covid.

So, should I be worried?

While the emergence of new variants is a reminder that Covid is still around, the good news is it’s a much different picture than what we faced earlier in the pandemic. Most people have some level of immunity, and the symptoms associated with FLiRT and LB.1 are generally mild.

Here’s what you can do:

• Stay informed: Keep an eye on reputable sources like the CDC or WHO for the latest information on Covid and its variants.
• Get vaccinated and boosted: Vaccination is still the best way to protect yourself from serious illness.
• Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands frequently, wear a mask in crowded situations, and stay home if you’re feeling unwell.
• Know the red flags: If you experience any of the warning signs mentioned earlier, don’t hesitate to see your doctor.

By staying informed, taking precautions, and being mindful of the symptoms, you can navigate this new phase of Covid with confidence.