Covid Cases Rising in UK: Health Agency Urges Caution, Especially for Vulnerable Individuals
London, UK – A surge in Covid-19 cases, alongside the typical seasonal increase in common colds, is prompting a warning from the UK Health security Agency (UKHSA) to limit contact with others, especially those most vulnerable to severe illness. Latest data indicates a shift in dominant variants, with XFG.3 currently accounting for 35% of cases, making it the most prevalent strain alongside NB.1.8.1, also known as “Nimbus.”
According to recent UKHSA figures,the breakdown of circulating variants is as follows: XFG.3 (35%), XFG (28%), NB.1.8.1 (11%), XFG.5 (7%), adn XFG.3.4.1 (7%). While viruses naturally mutate, current evidence suggests these newer variants do not cause more severe illness than those previously in circulation.
The UKHSA advises individuals experiencing symptoms – which can include a high temperature,new continuous cough,or a change in taste or smell – to avoid contact with vulnerable people and stay home if possible. For those unable to isolate, the agency recommends several preventative measures:
* Wearing a well-fitting face covering (multiple layers or a surgical mask).
* Avoiding crowded indoor spaces,including public transport and large gatherings.
* Prioritizing outdoor exercise with minimal close contact.
* Practicing good hygiene: covering coughs and sneezes, frequent handwashing with soap and water for 20 seconds (or using hand sanitiser), and avoiding touching the face.
Covid tests are available for purchase at pharmacies, supermarkets, and online. Free tests are accessible at local pharmacies for individuals eligible for Covid treatments.
Dr. Jamie Lopez Bernal, Consultant Epidemiologist at UKHSA, emphasized the importance of caution: “If you have symptoms of flu or COVID-19 such as a high temperature, cough, and feeling tired and achy, try to limit your contact with others, especially those who are vulnerable.” He added, “If you have symptoms and need to leave the house, our advice remains that you shoudl wear a face covering. washing hands regularly and using and disposing of tissues in bins can reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses.”
A Covid vaccination program is currently underway, running from October 1, 2023, until January 31, 2026. Eligible individuals include those aged 75 and over, residents of older adult care homes, and immunosuppressed people aged six months and over.
Appointments can be booked online via the NHS website (england: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/vaccination-and-booking-services/, Scotland: https://vacs.nhs.scot/csp, Northern Ireland: https://vaccinations.covid-19.hscni.net/location-search), thru local GP surgeries, or at participating pharmacies.
Further information on Covid-19 symptoms and vaccine eligibility can be found on the NHS website: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/.
