Specialists have warned that a new rhinovirus might pose a well being danger to susceptible individuals resulting from signs which can be much like coronavirus.
Rhinovirus could be the motive in your cold-like signs, with individuals experiencing a headache or runny nostril now being urged to remain at dwelling regardless of a detrimental Covid check.
A spokesperson for the Division of Well being has set out find out how to inform the distinction between the 2 viruses to cut back the possibility of spreading the an infection to others, Belfast Dwell experiences.
Indicators of coronavirus will not be restricted to the three unique signs generally described and will embody a runny nostril, sore throat or headache - all typical indicators of a respiratory virus.
Authorities recommendation now states that anybody with cold-like signs ought to keep at dwelling to and isolate to cease the rhinovirus spreading additional.
They stated: "Present official recommendation on COVID-19, as detailed on, already acknowledges that signs might range and will not be restricted to the three central signs recognized on the outset of the pandemic.

COVID-19 signs “could also be much like the chilly or flu” and “might range for various age teams or completely different variants of the virus”.
"Individuals with one of many three unique signs of COVID (cough, temperature or lack of scent and style) are nonetheless suggested to remain at dwelling and e book a PCR check."
"If in case you have different signs of a respiratory virus (equivalent to runny nostril, sore throat or headache) you'll be able to take a LFD check.
"Even when you don’t have COVID, your signs could also be brought on by one other respiratory virus equivalent to rhinovirus which might be simply handed on to others.
"It's due to this fact advisable to remain at dwelling when you can and scale back contact with others when you've got respiratory virus signs to keep away from spreading an infection to others."
Covid signs
In response to the NHS's up to date checklist, coronavirus signs embody:
Shortness of breath
Feeling drained or exhausted
An aching physique
A headache
A sore throat
A blocked or runny nostril
Lack of urge for food
Diarrhoea
Feeling sick or being sick
Rhinovirus signs
Rhinovirus is the primary offender behind the widespread chilly. Sickness normally begins with:
- a runny nostril
- sore throat
- sneezing
- headache
- cough
- muscle aches
Most rhinovirus infections are gentle, however they'll typically result in bronchiolitis and pneumonia – particularly in infants.
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