The NHS is urging people to stay home and avoid contact with others if they spot three signs of a new strain of Coronavirus, known as XEC. This comes amid a surge in Covid cases and the belief among experts that XEC could become the dominant strain worldwide.
First detected in Germany, it has since been found in 27 countries across Europe, Asia, and North America, with over 600 cases recorded globally, including 82 confirmed cases within the UK. The strain is believed to be highly transmissible due to its numerous mutations.
As Covid cases rise across the UK, data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) shows a 21.6 percent increase in cases in England in just one week. In the seven days up to September 25, there were 2,797 recorded cases of Covid – an increase of 530 from the previous week.
There was also a 50 percent increase in Covid deaths in England in the week up to September 20, with 134 recorded. Despite self-isolation rules no longer being mandatory in the UK, the NHS still recommends staying at home and avoiding contact with others if you have symptoms.
The NHS guidance states: “You can go back to your normal activities when you feel better or do not have a high temperature. If your child has mild symptoms such as a runny nose, sore throat or mild cough, and they feel well enough, they can go to school or childcare.”, reports Birmingham Live.
Booster jabs are available until December 20 this year for those who are most at risk from Covid. Eligible individuals will be contacted by the NHS; however, appointments can also be made through the NHS App, local GPs, pharmacies, walk-in centres, or by dialling 119. Simultaneously, people eligible for the influenza vaccine will have the opportunity to receive it.