As the number of cases linked to SARS-COV-2 EG.5 (Eris) has risen considerably worldwide in recent weeks, the World Health Organisation has elevated this variant into the category of “variants requiring attention”.

The Centre stressed that the illness – like several Omicron variants – causes flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, runny nose, sore throat, muscle and joint pain and weakness.

However, the risk of severe illness is low.