XEC variant
COVID-19 cases are on the rise again in the UK, with a new variant called XEC drawing attention from health officials. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has reported an increase in infections, especially among the elderly, as hospitalization rates climb. Recent data shows that hospitalizations have reached 4.55 per 100,000 people, up from 3.72 per 100,000 the previous week. The North East is seeing the highest hospital admissions at 8.12 per 100,000, while the elderly, particularly those aged 85 and above, face a significant spike, with admissions soaring to 52.48 per 100,000. report from GB News.
With winter approaching, health experts are urging eligible individuals to get vaccinated against Covid-19, flu, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Dr. Jamie Lopez Bernal, a Consultant Epidemiologist at UKHSA, stated, “COVID-19 is continuing to circulate, with a slight increase in hospitalizations over the past two weeks.” He warned that flu and RSV are also expected to rise in the coming months and advised the public to take advantage of vaccines. “If you’re eligible to get vaccinated against the three main winter threats – Covid-19, flu, and RSV – now is the time to take them up and get winter strong,” he added.
Regarding the new XEC strain, Dr. Bernal acknowledged public concerns, noting that “around one in 10″ COVID-19 cases sequenced in the UK are of this lineage. However, he reassured the public that “current information doesn’t suggest we should be more concerned about this variant, but we are monitoring this closely.”
The UKHSA also advises the public to exercise caution when feeling unwell. Dr. Bernal emphasized the importance of limiting contact with others when experiencing symptoms such as a high temperature, cough, or fatigue. “Try to limit your contact with others, especially those who are vulnerable,” he advised.
While isolation is no longer mandatory, health officials recommend staying home for five days following a positive test and avoiding contact with high-risk individuals for ten days. The NHS echoes this advice, stating, “You can go back to your normal activities when you feel better or do not have a high temperature.” according to Al-Jazeera.
Covid-19 cases have risen by 2.8% overall, with England seeing a 21.6% spike the previous week. In the week leading up to October 2, England and Wales recorded 2,912 new infections. Additionally, 128 COVID-related fatalities were reported in the week prior to September 27, and hospitalizations reached 2,622 in the seven days leading to September 28.
The UKHSA continues to monitor the spread of the XEC strain and its potential to become more widespread as the winter months progress.
