Corona symptoms in autumn 2023
These signs make the new Corona variants noticeable
© st.kolesnikov / Adobe Stock
Summer is over – and in addition to the first waves of colds, the coronavirus is now returning. We explain here which variants currently exist and which symptoms they trigger.
Just a short time ago, the cold season and the waves of colds that usually accompanied it seemed to be very far away. In the meantime, autumn has arrived again – and In addition to the classic respiratory infections, these also occur Corona case numbers again. As the virus constantly mutates and produces new variants, the symptoms of an infection sometimes change.
The new Corona variants in autumn 2023
Earlier this year, Omicron in particular was the predominant Corona variant. This has resulted in, among other things, two new mutations that could cause problems for us in the fall: Eris and Pirola.
Particularly Pirola (BA.2.86) is being studied carefully by scientists because the subtype contains more than 30 mutations in the so-called spike protein. This ensures that the viruses can attach to healthy body cells and, according to a large-scale study, plays a role study also plays a role in the development of the disease itself. The World Health Organization (WHO) therefore classifies Pirola as “Variant under observation” – even if it is not yet clear whether it leads to more infections or more severe disease progression.
Symptoms of the Pirola variant
The last corona variants such as Omicron were primarily characterized by the fact that they almost identical symptoms to those of a classic cold:
Pirola is now causing further problems, as various British media report on appeal by the country’s dermatological association. Additional symptoms include:
- Sore throats
- Red and/or itchy eyes
- Red and sore fingers or toes
- Diarrhea
- skin rash
- Swelling or inflammation in the mouth or tongue
Symptoms of the Eris variant
Eris (EG.5) has developed from the Pirola variant and causes various symptoms that can also occur with a cold or flu:
- Stuffy or runny nose
- Persistent cough for at least an hour
- Trembling limbs up to chills
- Increased temperature up to fever
- shortness of breath
- Headache
- Scratchy feeling in the throat
- fatigue
- Loss of taste or smell
- Loss of appetite
Especially since the symptoms are so unspecific and, in addition to Corona, several respiratory infections are possible triggers, It is important to test yourself for COVID-19 daily in the first few days after symptoms first appear. If the test is positive, the family doctor is the first point of contact – and if possible, always by phone.
Current Corona numbers at a glance
According to the so-called pandemic radar of the Federal Ministry of Health The 7-day incidence (cases per 100,000 inhabitants) is currently highest in Saarland at 26.2, The lowest in Bremen was 6.2. However, a significantly higher number of unreported cases is possible, as there are currently significantly fewer tests being carried out than last year.
Anyway: It is assumed that the basic immunity in this country is still quite broad due to vaccinations and previous infections. You can still get infected – that’s why it makes sense to continue to do so AHA rule To use: Keep your distance, pay attention to hygiene, wear everyday masks. This is especially true where many people come together, such as on public transport. STIKO will also recommend a booster vaccination to high-risk patients and their relatives, people aged 60 and over and nursing staff.
Sources: Press release SALK Institute for Biological Studies, bfarm.de, rki.de