Latest news with #SuzanneWylie
Cosmopolitan
28-05-2025
- Health
- Cosmopolitan
A new Covid variant NB.1.8.1 is spreading: here are the symptoms to look out for
While for some, the coronavirus pandemic might feel like a lifetime ago, the virus is unfortunately still something we ought to be mindful of. New reports say a fresh variant, NB.1.8.1, descended from the Omicron variant, has now been identified as a 'Variant Under Monitoring' by the World Health Organisation – meaning it's a mutation of the virus that experts are wanting to keep an eye on. Initially, there was a spike in cases in China, but the NB.1.8.1. strain has now also been detected in the U.S., Indian and possibly the UK, although there isn't solid data on how widespread or likely that is just yet. Before this sparks any panic, it's important to say this does not mean there's cause for concern, says Dr Suzanne Wylie, GP and medical adviser for IQdoctor. "Health officials are warning that this variant is spreading rapidly, suggesting it has enhanced transmissibility compared to circulating strains," she explains. "As with previous variants, we can expect it to become more prevalent globally over the coming weeks if current trends continue." Dr Wylie adds that from a clinical standpoint, there's currently a lack of in-depth studies to assess the impact of the NB.1.8.1 variant. "[But] based on preliminary observations, no rise in severity has been reported, and it is anticipated that current COVID-19 vaccinations will continue to be effective in preventing hospitalisation and severe illness, though this hasn't been formally studied for NB.1.8.1 specifically." Here, we take a look at the new Covid variant symptoms to be mindful of and detail everything else we know about NB.1.8.1. According to Dr Wylie, this new variant "appears to follow similar patterns to previous Omicron variants", in terms of how contagious it is and how severely unwell it makes people. However, given this new strain is still in its infancy, more clinical data is needed. "Any increase in community transmission could still impact vulnerable populations and healthcare services, so continued vigilance is appropriate whilst we await more comprehensive research," she adds. By now, we're likely all familiar with the more general Covid symptoms of a temperature, loss of taste or smell, and a cough. But when it comes the NB.1.8.1., Dr Wylie says early reports indicate symptoms are mild and "similar to earlier Omicron variants, including a sore throat, cough, and fever." She stresses again that there's minimal research at this stage for this specific variant. "As a GP, I'd advise patients to remain alert for the familiar constellation of COVID symptoms we've seen throughout the pandemic: respiratory symptoms such as persistent cough, fever, sore throat, fatigue, headache, muscle aches, and loss of taste or smell," Dr Wylie advises. "Until we have more specific data on NB.1.8.1, our existing clinical recognition patterns remain the best guide." The advice on how to approach a confirmed or suspected case of Covid has changed a lot since the early days of the pandemic – free, routine testing is no longer as readily available. "The emphasis has shifted towards personal responsibility and protecting vulnerable individuals," says Dr Wylie, reminding that there are still people at greater risk of falling ill with Covid compared to the general population. It's important that those people are kept in mind if you suspect you have Covid. "The general advice is to stay at home whilst unwell and avoid contact with others, particularly vulnerable people, until you feel better and no longer have a high temperature," notes the GP. "You should seek medical advice if symptoms worsen or if you're in a high-risk group." If you work in healthcare, testing is still advised but routine community testing and reporting is no longer mandatory. "The key principle is to behave responsibly," the doctor reminds. "If you're unwell with respiratory symptoms, treat it as potentially infectious regardless of the specific cause and take appropriate precautions to protect others." This article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Jennifer Savin is Cosmopolitan UK's multiple award-winning Features Editor, who was crowned Digital Journalist of the Year for her work tackling the issues most important to young women. She regularly covers breaking news, cultural trends, health, the royals and more, using her esteemed connections to access the best experts along the way. She's grilled everyone from high-profile politicians to A-list celebrities, and has sensitively interviewed hundreds of people about their real life stories. In addition to this, Jennifer is widely known for her own undercover investigations and campaign work, which includes successfully petitioning the government for change around topics like abortion rights and image-based sexual abuse. Jennifer is also a published author, documentary consultant (helping to create BBC's Deepfake Porn: Could You Be Next?) and a patron for Y.E.S. (a youth services charity). Alongside Cosmopolitan, Jennifer has written for The Times, Women's Health, ELLE and numerous other publications, appeared on podcasts, and spoken on (and hosted) panels for the Women of the World Festival, the University of Manchester and more. In her spare time, Jennifer is a big fan of lipstick, leopard print and over-ordering at dinner. Follow Jennifer on Instagram, X or LinkedIn.
The Sun
25-04-2025
- Health
- The Sun
Warning over ‘dangerous' method most use to reduce a child's fever after mum's ‘mistake' almost cost her son's life
WHEN your child has a fever, reaching for a cold flannel might seem like an obvious fix. However, doctors generally advise against it, as it can sometimes make the fever worse or trigger serious complications. 3 "If a child is suddenly cooled too rapidly, particularly if they already have a high fever, this can sometimes lead to a rapid shift in body temperature," Dr Suzanne Wylie, GP and medical adviser for IQdoctor, told Sun Health. "In rare cases, this can increase the risk of a febrile seizure - especially in young children who are already susceptible." And although these types of seizures are generally brief and not harmful in the long term, they can be very frightening for parents. "It's much safer to reduce temperature gently and gradually," she adds. The warning comes after Dr Christabel Akinola shared a tale on Instagram about a mum who sponged her child with cold water from the fridge when she noticed he was burning up. The parent sponged his chest, back, neck and head, the doctor explained in a social media post. The boy then shivered violently and stopped moving – he was then rushed to hospital. 'Do you know that you should not use cold water for tepid sponging during a fever?' Dr Akinola, said. She said the sudden temperature contrast 'can trigger a seizure or even collapse the cardiovascular system'. This is because applying something cold to the skin causes the blood vessels near the surface to constrict, Dr Suzanne added, a process known as vasoconstriction. "This response reduces heat loss through the skin and can trap heat deeper in the body, potentially making the fever worse." This level of stress on the body can also impact the heart and circulatory system. "In extreme cases, this could lead to serious complications, such as a heart attack or shock, especially in vulnerable people, like young children," she said. On top of this, sudden exposure to cold can be uncomfortable for the child and may lead to shivering, "which in turn can increase the body's temperature," she added. Instead, the best thing you can do for a child suffering from a fever is to keep them cool, not cold. "Dress them in light clothing," Professor Franklin Joseph, consultant physician and head of Dr Frank's Clinic, also told Sun health. "Keep the room at a moderate temperature, and ensure they're well hydrated. "You can also give age-appropriate doses of paracetamol or ibuprofen to help bring the fever down." Let a fever run That said, it is sometimes important to let a fever run its course. 'Fever is a natural and important part of the body's immune response," Dr Frank added. He said: "When the body detects an infection, it raises its internal temperature because many bacteria and viruses cannot survive at higher temperatures. "In other words, the fever is a defence mechanism, helping the body fight off infection more effectively.' 'Automatically suppressing every fever can sometimes prolong illness by interfering with this natural response." When to call for help According to the NHS, parents should seek medical attention if their child is under three months old with a temperature over 38°C, or if the fever lasts more than five days. "Other red flags include difficulty breathing, a rash that doesn't fade under pressure, seizures, unusual drowsiness, persistent vomiting," Professor Franklin said. "Also look out for signs of dehydration such as a dry mouth and no wet nappies. "If in doubt, trust your instincts and speak to a doctor.' What causes a fever? A fever is usually a sign that the body is fighting an infection When your body detects an infection, like a virus or bacteria, it triggers the immune system to release chemicals called pyrogens. These chemicals signal the brain to raise the body's temperature. This higher temperature helps fight off infections by making it harder for the germs to survive and by boosting the immune system. Common causes of fever include: In most cases, a fever is a temporary condition that goes away once the infection or underlying cause is treated. Source: NHS
