Some of the most common symptoms of Covid-19 have changed since the pandemic began, a new study claims.

The new strain, also known as the Indian variant, is now responsible for more than 90 per cent of new Covid cases in the UK.

Now new data suggests that the variant feels like a ‘bad cold’ for younger people, according to Tim Spector of King’s College.

Prof Spector runs the Zoe Covid Symptom study.

The classic Covid symptoms people should look out for, the NHS says, are a persistent cough, and fever a loss of smell or taste.

Millions of people have been reporting their symptoms in the ZOE Covid Symptom Study since March 2020.

Professor Spector said: "Since the start of May, we have been looking at the top symptoms in the app users - and they are not the same as they were.

"This variant seems to be working slightly differently. 

"People might think they've just got some sort of seasonal cold and they still go out to parties and they might spread around to six other people.

"We think this is fuelling a lot of the problem."

He added:  "The message here is that if you are young, you are going to get milder symptoms anyway.

"It might just feel like a bad cold or some funny 'off' feeling - but do stay at home and do get a test."