The areas of Voss and Bergen in Norway recently discovered a new covid-19 mutation. This mutation tends to be highly contagious. All people in this areas must stay inside until the risks have been mapped, says the major of Bergen.
Symptoms of respiratory tract infections can begin with vague symptoms such as headache and blocked nose or more classic influenza-like symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat and feeling unwell. The symptoms may be caused by COVID-19. Vaccinated people may only have mild cold symptoms with COVID-19.
What should you do with newly arisen respiratory tract symptoms?
Stay home with newly-arisen respiratory tract symptoms if you feel unwell. You should stay home until you feel better and you have been fever-free for 24 hours. Mild residual symptoms such as runny nose, mucus, hoarseness and some coughing are fine.
To reduce the risk of infecting others, you should have good hand hygiene and cough etiquette. You should also keep your distance from others, especially people at risk. It is recommended to use a face mask when you are in close contact with people in risk groups if you have cold / respiratory tract symptoms.
Contact your doctor if you are concerned about your own health or that of your child.
It is recommended that you test for COVID-19 for newly-arisen respiratory tract symptoms.
The test recommendation does not apply to children and pupils up and including upper secondary school age. It may still be relevant to test children / adolescents if they are to be vaccinated, or for registration for a COVID-19 certificate.
If a medical assessment is required, the test can be included in the overall assessment, as for other respiratory tract infections.