Covid-19 Spike in Balearic Islands Linked to New FLiRT Strains
A significant increase in Covid-19 cases has been reported in the Balearic Islands, as announced by local health authorities. Dr. Antonio Oliver, head of the Microbiology Service at Son Espases Hospital in Palma, noted that current case numbers are surpassing those recorded last winter. The surge, ongoing for the past eight weeks, is driven by new virus strains known as FLiRT, with one strain, KP.3, also causing a 24% rise in hospitalizations in the UK.
The primary symptoms include a fever lasting two to three days, a cough, and muscle pain. Dr. Oliver recommends basic preventive measures such as hand washing, avoiding enclosed spaces, and wearing masks in crowded areas.