Overview

• UKHSA reports COVID-19 test positivity up from 7.6% to 8.4% in a week, hospitalisations increasing from 2.00 to 2.73 per 100,000, and rhinovirus positivity climbing to 14.8%.
• New Hampshire officials say flu, COVID-19 and RSV vaccines are widely available through pharmacies and providers, with more COVID-19 supply reaching clinics in the coming weeks.
• Guidance highlights flu shots for everyone 6 months and older, RSV vaccination for older adults and infants under 8 months, and seasonal COVID-19 vaccines with emphasis on higher‑risk groups including older adults, young children, pregnant people and those with underlying conditions.
• For the first time in the UK, toddlers can receive the flu vaccine as a nasal spray at community pharmacies, with most eligible groups able to book NHS appointments from 1 October.
• Genomic monitoring identifies circulating COVID-19 lineages nicknamed Stratus (XFG, XFG.3) and Nimbus (NB.1.8.1), with UKHSA stating there is no indication of increased severity; officials also urge hygiene steps and mask use when symptomatic, and NH authorities note insurers have reported no‑cost vaccine coverage through 2026 subject to verification.