The UK Health Security Agency is urging those who are eligible to book their free vaccinations in an effort to control the anticipated rise in infection rates this winter
The UK is witnessing a rise in Covid-19 cases and hospitalisations as new variants emerge, according to the most recent data. The UK Health Security Agency is urging those who are eligible to book their free jabs in an effort to manage the expected increase in infection rates this winter.
A fresh strain of Covid, known as Stratus, along with its variants XFG and XFG. 3, is currently making rounds in the UK, with XFG.
The Stratus variant is associated with a unique symptom – it causes individuals to have a hoarse voice. Experts from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the World Health Organisation (WHO) are closely monitoring these variants but aren’t overly concerned, stating that viral mutation is a normal occurrence.
In a recent alert, the UKHSA reported that COVID-19 positivity has risen from 7.6% to 8.4% within a week. There has also been a slight uptick in flu positivity: 1.3% compared with 1.1% the previous week, reports Gloucestershire Live.
The agency is encouraging individuals to use the NHS national booking system to schedule their free jabs against both flu and COVID-19. It added that RSV vaccinations can also be booked online or through local GPs.
The UK Health Security Agency is urging people to book their jabs for flu, COVID-19 and RSV as cases start to climb ahead of the winter months. The latest national flu and COVID-19 surveillance report shows a consistent rise in cases over recent weeks, with COVID-19 positivity climbing from 7.6 per cent to 8.4 per cent within a week.
Hospital admissions due to COVID-19 have also risen 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, toddlers, alongside other eligible groups, can get their flu jab, given as a nasal spray, at community pharmacies.
To increase uptake this winter, the government has also rolled out a new vaccination communications campaign this week, informing people of the steps they can take to protect themselves against flu this winter. The ‘Stay Strong.
The ‘Get Vaccinated’ campaign, a joint initiative by The Department of Health and Social Care, UKHSA and NHS England, is set to target various eligible groups. It will be broadcast across multiple platforms including TV, video on demand, radio, outdoor and social media.
UKHSA has also reported a significant increase in the virus that causes the common cold, likely spurred by schools reopening after the summer holidays. Rhinovirus positivity has risen to 14.8%, up from 10.9% the previous week.
The public is being urged to maintain good hygiene practices such as regular handwashing and using tissues to limit the spread of viruses.
Dr Jamie Lopez Bernal, Consultant Epidemiologist at UKHSA, stated: “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.”
Those eligible for the flu jab include: people aged 65 or over (including those who’ll be 65 by 31 March 2026), individuals with certain long-term health conditions, expectant mothers, care home residents, main carers for elderly or disabled people, or those living with someone who has a compromised immune system.
As for the COVID-19 vaccination, this includes: individuals aged 75 or over (including those who’ll be 75 by 31 January 2026), people aged 6 months to 74 years with compromised immune systems due to health conditions or treatment, and care home residents for older adults.
The RSV vaccination is offered to: expectant mothers (at 28 weeks pregnant or more), individuals aged 75-79, and those who turned 80 years old after 1 September 2024.
UKHSA publishes guidance for individuals experiencing symptoms of respiratory infections including COVID-19, or those with positive COVID-19 test results. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is responsible for preventing, preparing for, and responding to infectious diseases and environmental hazards in order to keep our communities safe, save lives, and protect livelihoods.
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