UK Braces for Challenging Winter as New Covid Variants Dominate
The UK is bracing for a challenging winter as new Covid variants, XFG (Stratus) and NB.1.8.1 (Nimbus), become dominant. Health chiefs warn of a surge in infections and hospitalisations, with children returning to school and immunity waning. The NHS anticipates record-breaking pressure on A&E and ambulance services this winter.
Infections with these new variants are causing additional symptoms such as a hoarse voice or 'razor blade' sore throat, along with typical Covid symptoms. The increase in cases has led to a rise in positivity rates, from 7.6 to 8.4 per cent in just a week, and hospital admissions, from 2 to 2.73 per 100,000. Experts attribute this to children returning to school and colder temperatures, which facilitate the spread of viruses.
In response, the NHS is adopting a stronger approach to winter this year. Health chiefs have launched a winter vaccination drive, urging eligible people to get vaccinated to protect the most vulnerable from new variants. The public is advised to wear masks and isolate if they test positive to help reduce the spread of infection.
With Australia's severe flu season this year potentially indicating a challenging winter for the UK, and low vaccine rates among children, the NHS braces for a busy winter. The new Covid variants, XFG (Stratus) and NB.1.8.1 (Nimbus), pose a significant threat, making it crucial for the public to follow health guidance and get vaccinated.
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