Latest news with #ChunTang
Daily Record
11-06-2025
- Health
- Daily Record
Should we be worried about new Covid strain Nimbus as UK cases rise?
The new variant of Covid NB.1.8.1 is more easily spread than past strains of the virus. A new strain of Covid that causes some new and unusual symptoms has been found in the UK and 21 other countries so far, including Australia, China and India. The variant has been named NB.1.8.1, or "Nimbus", and is similar to the Omicron strain of the virus. This new version of the disease is making up a "growing proportion" of Covid cases worldwide, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). Scientists have discovered that this new variant can spread far more easily than previous strains of Covid, and the World Health Organisation have deemed it a "variant under monitoring". New and unusual symptoms have been associated with Nimbus, including heartburn, along with some other gastrointestinal signs like nausea, diarrhoea, and a severe sore throat that causes a "razor-blade sensation". Nimbus is rising worldwide, and 13 cases had been found in the UK as of yesterday, June 10. But is this new variant of Covid something we should be worrying about? Dr Gayatri Amirthalingam, UKHSA Deputy Director, said: "NB.1.8.1 has been detected in small numbers in the UK to date, but international data suggests that it is growing as a proportion of all COVID-19 cases. "Based on the available information so far however, there is no evidence to suggest that this variant causes more severe disease than previous variants, or that the vaccines in current use will be less effective against it." Dr Chun Tang, GP at UK private healthcare centre Pall Mall Medical, said: 'NB.1.8.1 isn't too different from the Omicron variant, but it does have some tweaks to its spike protein, which might make it spread a bit more easily or slip past some of our existing immunity. 'That said, early signs suggest it doesn't seem to cause more serious illness, but of course, we're still learning more about it.' WHO have announced that the risks posed by Nimbus to the public are low, and that existing Covid vaccinations are thought to be effective against the new variant, which was first discovered in January of this year. However, those suffering from symptoms of the NB.1.8.1 Covid variant are being advised by UKHSA to stay home to prevent further spreading of the highly-transmissible virus. The full list of symptoms are; a high temperature or shivering (chills) – a high temperature means you feel hot to touch on your chest or back (you do not need to measure your temperature) a new, continuous cough – this means coughing a lot for more than an hour, or 3 or more coughing episodes in 24 hours a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste shortness of breath feeling tired or exhausted an aching body a headache a sore throat a blocked or runny nose loss of appetite diarrhoea feeling sick or being sick Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'.
Daily Record
10-06-2025
- Health
- Daily Record
What has caused the global spike in new Covid variant 'Nimbus' NB.1.8.1?
The new 'Nimbus' strain is the latest Covid variant, and cases have been confirmed in the UK. A new variant of Covid named NB.1.8.1 or 'Nimbus' is spreading like wildfire across the globe, with India the newest country to report a severe spike in cases. This new strain has also been found in Thailand, Indonesia and China, and the UK Health Security Agency recorded its first cases in the UK last week. NB.1.8.1 originated from the Omicron variant of the virus, and was first found back in January of this year. Cases have also been reported in states across the United States and Australia. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the Nimbus variant made up around 10.7 per cent of global recorded sequences in April, a staggering increase from just 2.5 per cent in March. The new strain has been declared a "variant under monitoring" by WHO, meaning that it could change the behaviours of the virus. Nimbus has been found in 22 countries so far and presents some unusual new symptoms. Scientists have found that this new variant also spreads more easily than previous strains of Covid, which may explain the recent surge in cases. Dr Chun Tang, GP at UK private healthcare centre Pall Mall Medical, said: 'NB.1.8.1 isn't too different from the Omicron variant, but it does have some tweaks to its spike protein, which might make it spread a bit more easily or slip past some of our existing immunity. 'That said, early signs suggest it doesn't seem to cause more serious illness, but of course, we're still learning more about it.' Australian virologist Lara Herrero, of Griffith University, wrote in The Conversation last month: 'Using lab-based models, researchers found NB.1.8.1 had the strongest binding affinity to the human ACE2 receptor of several variants tested, suggesting it may infect cells more efficiently than earlier strains." WHO has stated that risk to the global public is low, and that existing Covid vaccines are considered effective in preventing severe cases of the virus. Most common symptoms of Nimbus are similar to that of previous Covid strains. They include a severe sore throat, fatigue, mild cough, fever, muscle aches and congestion. Some patients have also experienced gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, diarrhoea, or even heartburn, reported The Independent. The full list of symptoms are; a high temperature or shivering (chills) – a high temperature means you feel hot to touch on your chest or back (you do not need to measure your temperature) a new, continuous cough – this means coughing a lot for more than an hour, or 3 or more coughing episodes in 24 hours a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste shortness of breath feeling tired or exhausted an aching body a headache a sore throat a blocked or runny nose loss of appetite diarrhoea feeling sick or being sick While Nimbus may be more easily transmissible between people, healthcare experts are stressing that there is no evidence that the new strain is more deadly or serious than previous variants. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'.
Scottish Sun
13-05-2025
- Health
- Scottish Sun
The 16 common drugs in your medicine cabinet that increase your risk of agonising sunburn revealed
Experts warn that dozens of prescription and over-the-counter medications can make you more sensitive to the sun and increase your chances of skin cancer HOT TOPIC The 16 common drugs in your medicine cabinet that increase your risk of agonising sunburn revealed THE sun is finally shining and many of us will be making a beeline for the beach or our local park. But thousands of Brits need to take extra care when outdoors this summer as their medication might make them more prone to sunburn. 1 Some medications can make you more susceptible to sunburn Credit: Getty Dozens of drugs - both prescription and over-the-counter - can increase what's known as photosensitivity. In the short term, this could mean sore, red, blistered skin that can make it difficult to sleep. But longer term, frequent sunburn means you are at increased risk of skin cancer - which kills six people in the UK every day. Dr Chun Tang, a GP at Pall Mall, tells Sun Health: "People might be surprised to hear that some everyday medicines can make skin extra sensitive to sunlight. "It's called photosensitivity, and it means your skin reacts more strongly to UV rays, often ending in a sunburn that arrives quicker and hits harder than usual. "A few common culprits include antibiotics like doxycycline and ciprofloxacin, both often prescribed for infections. "Then there are anti-inflammatories like ibuprofen and naproxen, diuretics (water tablets used for blood pressure), and even some acne treatments like isotretinoin (formerly Roaccutane). "Older antidepressants such as amitriptyline can also increase your sun sensitivity. "These meds are perfectly safe when taken as prescribed, but when it's a sunny day, suddenly your skin is on high alert. "Some reactions look and feel like severe sunburn (that's called phototoxicity), while others show up more like a rash (which is known as photo allergy). The dangerous sunburn hacks you should NEVER try... from mouthwash to sour cream "Either way, it's not much fun, especially if you weren't expecting it." Also among the most common potentially problematic medicines are oral contraceptives - taken by almost a third of women in the UK. Antihistamines, antifungals, arthritis medicines, chemotherapy and immunosuppressants can also cause photosensitivity. No matter the drug, even short periods of sun exposure can trigger symptoms when the skin is photosensitive. Older adults, who are more likely to be taking multiple medications, need to be especially mindful Dr Chun Tang Dr Tang says: "The most obvious side effect is that you burn far faster than you normally would, sometimes after just 10 or 15 minutes in the sun. "I don't mean just a gentle pink glow, we're talking red, sore, blistered skin that can peel and take days to calm down. "You might also notice itchy rashes, changes in skin colour, or patches of irritation that appear on parts of the body you didn't think had even seen the sun. "Some of these reactions can be mistaken for heat rash or even eczema, so if something doesn't look quite right, it's worth asking your GP or popping into your local pharmacy for advice." The drugs that increase your risk of sunburn Acne medicines - isotretinoin Antibiotics - doxycycline and other tetracycline drugs, fluoroquinolones like ciprofloxacin and ofloxacin, levofloxacin, trimethoprim, sulfamethoxazole, dapsone Antidepressants - fluoxetine, citalopram, sertraline, amitriptyline, doxepin, St. John's wort Antifungals - griseofulvin, voriconazole, flucytosine Antihistamines - promethazine, diphenhydramine, cetirizine, loratadine, cyproheptadine Antipsychotics - chlorpromazine, fluphenazine, perphenazine, thioridazine, thiothixene, prochlorperazine Arthritis drugs - leflunomide, hydroxychloroquine Blood pressure drugs - hydrochlorothiazide, diltiazem, furosemide , bumetanide Chemotherapy Cholesterol drugs - simvastatin, atorvastatin, lovastatin, pravastatin Diabetes medications - sulfonylureas Heart medications - amiodarone, diltiazem, nifedipine Immunosuppressants - cyclosporine Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) - celecoxib, ibuprofen, ketoprofen, naproxen, piroxicam, diclofenac Oral contraceptives and oestrogens Sulfonamides - sulfadiazine, sulfamethoxazole, sulfisoxazole It's important to note that not everyone who takes any of these medications will be more sensitive to the sun. But we are all at risk, and some of us will be more prone to complications than others. "Some of us are naturally more sun-sensitive than others," Dr Tang says. "If you're fair-skinned, you'll already know you need to be careful in the sun, and medications that increase photosensitivity can make it even trickier. "Older adults, who are more likely to be taking multiple medications, also need to be especially mindful. "It's not just about age or skin tone though; if you spend lots of time outside for work, exercise, or gardening, the risk goes up too. "If you're starting a new medicine, always check the patient info leaflet, or speak with your pharmacist to see if sun sensitivity is a known issue. "The good news is it's easy to protect yourself. High-factor sunscreen, hats, and covering up during peak sun hours (usually 11am to 3pm) can make all the difference, so you can enjoy the sunshine." As with all medications, if you have a reaction, speak to a pharmacist or doctor.
The Independent
27-02-2025
- Health
- The Independent
Why people are getting norovirus twice
Known for its rapid spread and stomach-churning symptoms, norovirus has long been a common culprit behind wintertime stomach bugs. However, health officials are now warning the public about the potential for a 'second norovirus wave', as reports suggest that more individuals are contracting the vomiting bug more than once. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has noted that those who've already battled the virus this winter may be at risk of reinfection due to multiple strains. To shed light on this growing concern, we spoke to a GP who has explained why people could get norovirus more than once… What is norovirus? ' Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes vomiting and diarrhoea, often referred to as the 'winter vomiting bug',' says Dr Chun Tang, GP at Pall Mall Medical. 'It spreads like wildfire, usually through contaminated food, water, surfaces, or direct contact with an infected person.' According to the NHS website, the primary symptoms include sudden nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea. Patients may also experience a high temperature, headaches and stomach pains. 'It usually comes on very quickly, making you feel awful for a couple of days, but most people recover without any complications,' says Tang. 'The biggest risk is dehydration, so staying hydrated is key.' Why are people getting it twice? 'Unlike some viruses, norovirus doesn't give you long-term immunity,' explains Tang. 'There are many different strains, so even if you've had it before, you can still catch a different version of it. 'Plus, any immunity you do develop is short-lived, which means you can get sick again.' The two primary norovirus strains circulating in the UK at the moment are the GII.17 genotype, which is believed to be responsible for the surge in cases this winter, and the GII.4 strain. New UKHSA data shows that while the GII.17 genotype remains dominant, accounting for 59% of cases, its prevalence has dropped from 76% since November. Meanwhile, the GII.4 strain has seen a sharp rise, now representing 29% of cases compared to just 10% three months ago. What is the difference between the GII.17 and the GII.4 strain? 'The GII.4 strain has historically been the dominant one, causing most outbreaks,' notes Tang. 'However, the GII.17 genotype has been increasing in some parts of the world, and researchers think it may behave slightly differently in terms of how our immune systems respond to it. 'The recent sharp rise in GII.4 cases suggests it may have mutated again, making it more infectious or better at evading immunity.' Who is more at risk? Children younger than five years old, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems are more likely to develop severe infections, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. 'This is because [these groups] struggle to stay hydrated, which is the biggest danger with norovirus,' explains Tang. 'For babies and the elderly, dehydration can lead to hospitalisation if it's not managed properly.' How contagious is it? 'Norovirus spreads through tiny particles in vomit and stool, which can linger on surfaces or even in the air after someone vomits,' highlights Tang. 'You only need a few viral particles to become infected, which is why outbreaks happen so quickly in shared spaces.' Can it be treated? 'There's no specific treatment for norovirus – it's all about resting, staying hydrated, and letting your body fight it off,' says Tang. A common misconception is that alcohol hand gels kill norovirus. 'They don't,' clarifies Tang. 'Norovirus is resistant to alcohol, so washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water is the best way to prevent its spread.' Should people go to the doctors about norovirus? Most people don't need to see a doctor and can recover at home with rest and fluids. 'However, if you're struggling to keep fluids down, showing signs of severe dehydration (like dizziness, confusion, or very little urination), or have a baby or elderly person who seems particularly unwell, it's best to seek medical advice,' advises Tang. What can you do to prevent yourself from catching it? 'The best prevention is good hygiene – wash your hands properly with soap and water, especially after using the bathroom or before preparing food,' recommends Tang. 'Also, avoid close contact with sick people and disinfect surfaces regularly. 'If you do get norovirus, stay home for at least 48 hours after symptoms stop to prevent spreading it to others.'
The Independent
18-02-2025
- Health
- The Independent
This is how living in a cold home can impact your health
Winter in the UK appears to be never-ending. And new research by Age UK found three out of four people aged 66 and over thought their homes were colder than they'd like some, most of, or all of the time in January. The study also found for those with incomes of £20,000 or less, one in three (35 per cent) reported their homes were too cold most or all of the time. Nearly half (48 per cent) of respondents of the online survey were worried about being able to heat their homes when they wanted to. Some 44 per cent told Age UK they were worried about the impact of energy costs on their health. This is a noticeable increase from January 2024, when only one in three (33 per cent) expressed similar concerns. These figures - obtained in a survey of 2,573 adults aged 66 and over - suggest that beyond the discomfort, the effects of living in a cold environment can be far more serious than we might think. So, we've spoken with experts who have explained how cold homes could affect our health and have also provided some advice on how to reduce these risks… Heart The cold can take a hidden toll on our heart health. 'When your home is consistently cold, your body has to work harder to stay warm, which can put extra strain on your heart,' says Dr Chun Tang, GP at Pall Mall Medical. ' Cold temperatures can lead to higher blood pressure and over time, prolonged exposure to the cold can increase the risk of more serious conditions, like heart attacks and strokes.' 'Breathing in cold air can irritate your airways, making conditions like asthma and COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) worse,' explains Tang. 'A cold, damp home is also the perfect breeding ground for mould and mildew, which can trigger respiratory infections, wheezing, and persistent coughing. 'If you're finding yourself short of breath more often in winter, your home's temperature could be playing a role.' 'Cold temperatures can make joints feel stiff and achy, particularly if you have arthritis,' notes Tang. 'But more than that, if you're not moving around as much because you're trying to stay warm under blankets, your bones and muscles don't get the activity they need to stay strong. 'In the long run, this can contribute to weaker bones and an increased risk of conditions like osteoporosis.' Cold conditions can also increase the risk of falls and slips. 'When your muscles are cold, they don't work as efficiently, making you more prone to stiffness and slower reactions – both of which can increase the risk of slips and falls,' explains Tang. 'If you're shivering, you're also more likely to be unsteady on your feet. 'And if your home is cold and damp, floors can become slippery, making things even riskier.' Mind Living in a constantly cold environment isn't just uncomfortable – it can have a real impact on your mood and mental wellbeing. 'Being cold for long periods can lead to increased stress, anxiety, and even depression,' says Tang. 'It can also make you feel more fatigued and unmotivated, which makes everyday tasks feel harder. 'A warm, comfortable home is important not just for physical health, but for keeping spirits high, too.' Who is most at risk? 'Older adults, young children, and people with chronic conditions – like asthma or heart disease – are at higher risk,' highlights Tang. 'Those with weaker hearts may struggle more to pump blood effectively in the cold, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.' Here are some things you can do to reduce these health risks… See if you are eligible for financial support 'We'd definitely encourage everyone to ensure that they are getting any financial support that they are eligible for,' says Jenny Lippiatt, health programme manager at Age UK. 'The winter fuel payment is available still to some older people, and there are other benefits that are available.' Put the heating on 'I think some people are really fearful of putting their heating on and I completely understand why, but the health implications are potentially really damaging,' says Lippiatt. 'You can do things like concentrate the heating in the rooms that you are most likely to be in.' Draught-proof your home 'Make sure that your house is draught-proof,' recommends Lippiatt. 'We would encourage everyone to look at home efficiency tips, like making sure your boiler is checked and up to date and keeping windows and doors closed as much as possible so you're keeping the heat in.' Movement will help keep your body healthy and warm. 'If you do have stairs, you could try going up and down your stairs, or get outside for a walk if it's not too cold,' suggests Lippiatt. 'There's also lots of things around chair-based exercises if your movement is limited.' 'Eating warm meals and drinking hot drinks can also help regulate your body temperature,' says Tang.
