The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported that symptoms of the new coronavirus strain PJ may closely resemble those of influenza and common colds, making accurate diagnosis challenging without testing.
In a statement released on November 8, WHO experts emphasized that respiratory infections caused by COVID-19, influenza, and other viruses can present with overlapping symptoms. Consequently, it is impossible to determine the exact cause of infection based solely on patient experience. The organization stressed that the similarity of these manifestations does not allow for reliable identification of the infectious agent without laboratory confirmation.
Additionally, WHO officials confirmed that an expert group will review data on new coronavirus variants, including PJ, in December. This analysis will inform recommendations for updated COVID-19 vaccines and potential adjustments to existing formulations.
On October 27, Russia’s federal health authority, Rospotrebnadzor, reported that no new strains of the coronavirus had been detected within the country.
