Polish experts warn that during the 2025‑2026 season four coronavirus strains—Nimbus, Stratus, and others—could mask unusual symptoms, urging widespread vaccination and mask‑wearing.
Four COVID‑19 Variants
A new vaccine dose for COVID‑19 has been available since early September, with Polish experts Prof. Jolanta Zajkowska noting that four strains—Nimbus, Stratus and two others—are circulating this season.
Determining which strain dominates in a region depends on local exposure and travel patterns, Zajkowska said in an interview with “Fakt”.
She warned that atypical symptoms such as sore throat, cough, muscle aches, fever or even a run‑of‑the‑mill cold could mask COVID‑19, complicating diagnosis for patients and doctors alike.
Unusual COVID-19 Symptoms
Zajkowska highlighted gastrointestinal complaints—including diarrhoea and abdominal pain—as uncommon COVID‑19 manifestations that may provoke bleeding in some patients or severe headaches and sharp sore throats in others.
Besides vaccination, she stressed that mask‑wearing remains essential, especially in queues, healthcare settings and any venue where people are in close proximity.
COVID-19 Vaccinations
The Ministry of Health announced that from 9 September free e‑referrals for COVID‑19 shots in the 2025‑2026 season will be issued and posted on the Electronic Patient Account.
Appointments can be booked starting 15 September across primary‑care practices and pharmacy vaccination points that have agreements with the National Health Fund.
The chosen vaccine, Spikevax LP.8.1, is offered in age‑specific doses and is particularly recommended for seniors, chronically ill patients, those with weakened immunity, pregnant women, long‑term care residents and healthcare workers.
