If you're suffering from a particularly nasty sore throat this autumn, you might have caught one of the two new Covid variants making the rounds across Britain.
The XFG variant, nicknamed Stratus, and NB.1.8.1, called Nimbus, have become the dominant strains in the UK, officials have confirmed.
What's striking about these variants is the distinctive symptom they're causing - a "razor blade" sore throat that feels especially harsh, often accompanied by a hoarse voice.
While genetic changes in these variants might make them spread more easily between people, health experts want to reassure everyone that they don't seem to cause more severe illness than earlier Covid strains.
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The newest variants might spread more easily between people
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It's clear that Covid infections are climbing across the UK, with the Royal College of GPs reporting particular increases among very young children and elderly people.
Hospital admissions related to Covid are rising too, adding pressure to NHS services as we head into winter.
Beyond that distinctive throat pain, these variants still bring the full range of Covid symptoms we've come to know - headaches, persistent coughs, blocked or runny noses, and that familiar exhaustion that makes it tricky to tell if you've got Covid, a cold, or flu.
The advice remains to stay home when possible if you're feeling unwell and avoid vulnerable people.
The good news is that people aged 75 and over can get free Covid vaccines on the NHS, which the UK Health Security Agency says provide solid protection against these new variants.
The UKHSA is encouraging eligible people to book their jabs for Covid, flu and RSV as winter approaches.
"It's normal for viruses to mutate and change," the agency states, adding that "the most important thing is for those eligible to get their vaccination when it is due".
Consultant epidemiologist at UKHSA, Dr Alex Allen, offered reassurance: "Based on the available information so far, there is no evidence to suggest that the variants cause more severe disease or that the vaccines in current use will be less effective against them."
If you're experiencing that razor blade throat, the NHS suggests drinking plenty of fluids and trying a teaspoon of honey for relief.
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Britons suffering from razor blade throat are advised to drink plenty of liquids
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Face coverings are still recommended if you need to leave home with symptoms, along with regular handwashing and proper tissue disposal.
While free Covid tests are no longer widely available, pharmacies continue to stock them for purchase.
For those under 75 who want a vaccination but aren't eligible for free NHS jabs, High Street chemists and private clinics offer Covid vaccines at varying prices, with some charging around £99 per dose.
It's worth remembering that reinfection is possible even after recent illness or vaccination.
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