Data from the Office of National Statistics show that one in 40 people have Covid-19 at the moment. With concern growing, experts are warning of a hitherto uncommon symptom which is increasingly being reported among people who have been infected. Medics caution the public to test for Covid-19 should you spot blisters on your feet or those of your child.
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Covid toes
Blistered feet or ‘Covid toes’ cause the skin around the toes to discolour and swell. This condition is more common in children and young people, although anyone could get it, the Royal College of Podiatry said.
Classic chillblains are defined as cold induced, erythematous or violaceous lesions accompanied by itching, oedema, pain or burning, blistering or ulceration. However, Covid led to a wave of perniosis associated without any cold exposure
Similarly, findings of a scientific research conducted by online pharmacy, The Independent Pharmacy showed that this was predominant in children, although a few cases were reported in adults of all ages.
What to do
Clinical lead at the pharmacy, Dr Donald Grant said the symptom can also affect your hands:
As Covid is still such a new virus the exact reason that this happens is not fully understood by virologists and dermatologists. The symptom, which can also affect your hands, results in blisters and the development of itchy painful bump.
According to Manchester Evening Standard, the experts advise that if you spot these signs on your feet or hands, you should get tested for the virus to ensure that you’re not spreading especially to people with compromised immune systems.
Positive tests for those who present these symptoms should be reported to a doctor as research into the phenomenon is ongoing. It seems coronavirus continues to surprise us over two years on!
Sources used:
Manchester Evening Standard: The rare symptom that is an early sign you have Covid as cases climb - often affecting children
Mirror: Rare Covid symptom that often affects kids you should look out for as cases rise
Liverpool Echo: Rare covid symptom to look out for in kids as cases rise again
