The UK Health Security Agency has released the latest figures and data on Covid-19, flu and rhinovirus, with the new variants known as ‘Nimbus’ and ‘Stratus’
ITV This Morning’s Dr Sara has addressed the emergence of fresh Covid variants as infection rates climb across the nation.
She outlined the symptoms individuals might experience and provided guidance on managing the illness if contracted. The variants have been dubbed ‘Nimbus’ and ‘Stratus’.
Recent statistics released by the UK Health Security Agency last week revealed flu and Covid-19 are beginning to increase gradually, whilst rhinovirus is experiencing a “sharp rise” in infections.
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Among sequenced samples, the dominant lineage identified was XFG. This strain is termed Stratus and encompasses two variants, XFG and XFG. 3. Nevertheless, health authorities have stated the uptick in cases does not yet warrant alarm.
Dr Alex Allen, consultant epidemiologist at the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), said: “It is normal for viruses to mutate and change over time.”
The World Health Organisation has classified XFG as a “variant under monitoring” and indicated the public health threat presented by XFG is assessed as minimal on a worldwide scale, reports the Liverpool Echo.
Speaking on This Morning yesterday, Dr Sara explained: “We know that Covid cases are rising with some new variants, they’re called Nimbus and Stratus. And although these cases are rising rapidly through the UK, it is worth reminding everyone that the symptoms tend to be mild and the cases are rising mostly in line with all the other type of respiratory type of illnesses.”
Dr Sara explained: “So the Stratus variant is roughly accounting for 63% of cases and Nimbus 25% of cases and variants are essentially when a virus gets spread from person to person, and it changes slightly each time.”
The health guru highlighted that the latest variant has some “tell-tale signs” including a “hoarse voice” and a “razor blade” sore throat. She informed viewers and the presenters that people can exhibit any other usual Covid symptoms alongside it, such as headaches, coughing, runny nose and blocked nose.
Hospital admissions for covid are also on the rise, according to UKHSA data. The overall weekly hospital admission rate for Covid-19 this week increased to 2.73 per 100,000 compared with 2.00 per 100,000 in the previous week.
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Covid-19 isn’t the only bug that’s seen a surge in cases this week. Rhinovirus positivity (laboratory surveillance) increased to 14.8% compared with 10.9% in the previous week.
Dr Jamie Lopez Bernal, consultant epidemiologist at UKHSA, warned: “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.”
He added: “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.”