According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the new PJ.2.1 coronavirus strain can mimic the signs of standard respiratory infections. Due to the similarity in clinical presentation, it is impossible to determine the type of virus solely based on external symptoms.
The need for testing and possible signs
The organization emphasized that in several cases, laboratory testing may be required to establish an accurate diagnosis. Meanwhile, experts note a growing risk of the global spread of this strain.
Infectious disease specialist Elena Malinnikova highlighted specific features that may accompany PJ.2.1. Distinctive signs include a severe sore throat and a state of increased weakness, which may persist longer than usual after the illness has passed.
Despite the risks of spread, according to information from Rospotrebnadzor, this strain does not lead to a more severe course of the disease compared to previous variants.
