A new variant of Covid-19 has been designated as a variant of concern by the World Health Organization, although the risk to public health has been assessed as low.

The variant, known as EG.5 or "Eris", is related to a subvariant of Omicron known as XBB.1.9.2 and is spreading globally.

However, the WHO suggested that the variant does not pose a particular threat. Based on the available evidence, the public health risk from EG.5 is assessed as low globally.

Like other variants of Covid-19, early symptoms of the Eris variant may include:

- Changes or loss of smell and taste
- Fever
- Dry cough
- Fatigue
- Temperature
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Vomiting - Sneezing
-
Runny nose
- Sore throat
- Nausea

If the disease progresses, the symptoms may worsen and cause the following symptoms - in this case you should immediately seek medical help:

- Difficulty breathing and shortness of breath
- Inability to stay awake
- Pain or pressure in the chest
- Pale, blue or gray discoloration of the skin, lips or nails