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2h ago

UKHSA Tells Symptomatic People to Avoid Contact as 'Stratus' Variant Leads England Cases

Health officials cite rising respiratory activity, urging eligible people to get winter vaccines.

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Overview

  • The XFG lineage, known as 'Stratus', and its offshoots account for 77% of sequenced Covid cases in England, according to UKHSA data.
  • UKHSA advises people with respiratory symptoms to stay home if possible and avoid contact with vulnerable individuals.
  • Covid test positivity rose to 8.4% from 7.6% week on week, and hospital admissions increased to 2.73 per 100,000 from 2.00.
  • Rhinovirus laboratory positivity jumped to 14.8% from 10.9%, and there is no immunisation available against rhinovirus.
  • WHO lists XFG as a variant under monitoring and currently assesses its global public‑health risk as low, and UK guidance for those who cannot stay home includes well‑fitting masks, avoiding crowded or poorly ventilated places, outdoor exercise away from others, and strict hygiene.