UK Health Security Agency said the latest figures showed a rise in levels as it urged vulnerable to get vaccinated
The UK has seen a spike in Covid 19 levels and hospitalisations as new strains hit the country, latest figures have revealed. The UK Health Security Agency is encouraging those eligible to book free vaccinations in a bid to keep a lid on the expected rise in levels of infection this winter.
A new Covid strain named Stratus, with variants XFG and XFG.3, is circulating in the UK, with XFG.3 accounting for a significant proportion of cases in England.
The Stratus variant is associated with a unique symptom of giving people a hoarse voice. Experts from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the World Health Organisation (WHO) are monitoring the variants but are not overly concerned, stating that viral mutation is normal.
In a new warning this week the UKHSA said COVID-19 positivity has increased from 7.6% to 8.4% in a week. Flu positivity has increased slightly: 1.3% compared with 1.1% in the previous week
It urged people to use the NHS national booking system eligible groups to book free vaccination against flu and COVID-19. RSV vaccinations and added they can also be booked online or through local GPs.
The UK Health Security Agency is urging people to book their vaccinations against flu, COVID-19 and RSV as cases are starting to increase ahead of the winter months. The latest national flu and COVID-19 surveillance report shows cases have been steadily increasing for several weeks, with COVID-19 positivity increasing from 7.6% to 8.4% in a week. COVID-19 hospitalisations have also increased from 2.00 per 100,000 to 2.73 per 100,000.
The UKHSA said: “To ensure people are protected ahead of the peak respiratory illness season, UKHSA is highlighting the importance of taking up the free NHS offer as soon as you are invited for vaccination. Pregnant women and millions of children have already been able to get vaccinated, with appointments for most eligible groups available from 1 October. Vaccination offers the best protection against respiratory viruses such as flu, COVID-19 and RSV and the NHS national booking system means it’s easier than ever to book your appointment and get protected.”
For the first time this year, in addition to other eligible groups, toddlers can also get their flu vaccination which is given as a nasal spray, at community pharmacies.
To encourage higher uptake this winter, the government has this week also launched a new vaccination communications campaign advising people of the steps they can take to protect themselves against flu this winter. The ‘Stay Strong. Get Vaccinated’ campaign, developed by The Department of Health and Social Care, with UKHSA and NHS England will focus on different eligible groups and will run across a range of channels including TV, video on demand, radio, outdoor and social media.
UKHSA also reports a significant increase in the virus that causes the common cold, likely driven by the return of schools after the summer break. Rhinovirus positivity increased to 14.8% compared with 10.9% the previous week. Everyone is encouraged to practice good hygiene with regular handwashing and using tissues to reduce the spread.
Dr Jamie Lopez Bernal, Consultant Epidemiologist at UKHSA, said: “Flu and COVID-19 levels are starting to slowly increase. While this is to be expected at this time of year, now is the time for people to come forward for their winter vaccines if they’re eligible, before we start to see more of these viruses in circulation in the winter months.
“Vaccination offers the best protection against flu, COVID-19 and RSV which is why it’s vital that eligible groups get vaccinated. 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. If you have symptoms and need to leave the house, our advice remains that you should wear a face covering. Washing hands regularly and using and disposing tissues in bins can reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses.”
Groups eligible for the flu vaccine include: those aged 65 or over (including those who will be 65 by 31 March 2026), those with certain long-term health conditions, pregnant women, those who live in care homes, people who are the main carer for an older or disabled person or those living with someone with a weakened immune system.
For the COVID-19 vaccine, this includes: those who are aged 75 or over (including those who will be 75 by 31 January 2026), those aged 6 months to 74 years and have a weakened immune system because of a health condition or treatment and those who live in a care home for older adults.
The RSV vaccine is available for: pregnant women (if you’re 28 weeks pregnant or more), those aged 75-79 and those who turned 80 years old after 1 September 2024.
UKHSA publishes guidance for people with symptoms of a respiratory infection including COVID-19, or a positive test result for COVID-19.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) prevents, prepares for and responds to infectious diseases, and environmental hazards, to keep all our communities safe, save lives and protect livelihoods.
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