Latest news with #GayatriAmirthalingam
Daily Mirror
3 days ago
- Health
- Daily Mirror
Covid rates surge 97% as new infectious variant gains foothold in UK
A new strain of Covid has been discovered in the UK as rates of positive tests have soared 97% since the beginning of March. NB.1.8.1 COVID-19 variant, sometimes referred to as the Nimbus variant, has been detected in at least 12 cases so far in Britain. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said Nimbus is making up a "growing proportion" of Covid cases worldwide. Latest UKHSA data up shows a 97% increase overall in the number of positive Covid tests since, with 6.1% of people giving a reading for the virus on June 1 compared to just 3.21% at on March 1. Dr Gayatri Amirthalingam, UKHSA's deputy director, said the agency was monitoring Nimbus. She said: "UKHSA is monitoring all available data relating to SARS-CoV-2 variants in the UK and abroad, and we continue to publish our findings in our regular Flu and Covid-19 surveillance reports. "NB.1.8.1 has been detected in small numbers in the UK to date, but international data suggests that it is growing as a proportion of all Covid-19 cases." People testing positive, or who are suffering symptoms of a respiratory infection, are advised to avoid contact with vulnerable people and stay at home if possible. Symptoms include a high temperature and not feeling well enough to go to work or carry out normal activities. A statement from the UKHSA added: "The most important thing to do is to get your vaccination when it is due if you're eligible. "It's normal for viruses to mutate and change, and as more data becomes available on this variant, we'll have a better understanding of how it interacts with our immune systems and how to optimise our protection, as well as actions we can take to keep the most vulnerable safe and live our lives as normally as possible." The World Health Organisation (WHO) said the new Nimbus strain accounted for just over 10% of all global cases in May. 'The NB.1.8.1 variant, also referred to as Nimbus, is a new strain of the Covid-19 virus that has emerged due to mutations in its genetic material,' says Dr Naveed Asif, GP at The London General Practice. It's a sub-variant of Omicron, says Dr Chun Tang, GP at Pall Mall Medical. 'Variants like this pop up when the virus mutates, which is normal for viruses, especially ones that spread widely,' explains Tang. 'NB.1.8.1 was first picked up in early 2025 and has since been detected in several countries, including the UK, China and US. It's got some new mutations that scientists are keeping a close eye on.'
Daily Mirror
4 days ago
- Health
- Daily Mirror
Covid Nimbus variant in UK 'causes hospital surge' in some countries
Health experts have issued 'stay at home' advice and officials said in countries where it is rampant a big increase in serious infections has happened Top health officials have said people should 'stay indoors' if they feel they have Covid symptoms after a new strain was detected in the UK. Worryingly, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) highlighted that in other countries where the new 'Nimbus' variant is widespread, it has led to a big rise in hospitalisations. In a new blog the UKHSA said the fresh NB.1.8.1 variant spread, is being monitored by the World Health Organisation. Dr Gayatri Amirthalingam, the Deputy Director at UKHSA, said: "NB.1.8.1 has been detected in small numbers in the UK to date, but international data suggests that it is growing as a proportion of all Covid-19 cases." 'Based on the available information so far however, there is no evidence to suggest that this variant causes more severe disease than previous variants, or that the vaccines in current use will be less effective against it.' The UKHSA added: "NB.1.8.1 has been detected in small numbers in the UK to date, and international data suggests that it is growing as a proportion of all COVID-19 cases. Although cases and hospitalisations are increasing in some countries where NB.1.8.1 is widespread, current data does not indicate that this variant leads to more severe illness than other variants in circulation. "The most important thing to do is to get your vaccination when it is due if you're eligible. It's normal for viruses to mutate and change, and as more data becomes available on this variant we'll have a better understanding of how it interacts with our immune systems and how to optimise our protection, as well as actions we can take to keep the most vulnerable safe and live our lives as normally as possible." With the rise of the Nimbus variant, the UKHSA has issued advice on what people should do if they catch it - including wearing a mask if they go out. They stated: "If you have symptoms of a respiratory infection, such as COVID-19, and you have a high temperature or do not feel well enough to go to work or carry out normal activities, you should avoid contact with vulnerable people and stay at home if possible." The UKHSA further advised that if a person leaves their home while they have symptoms of a respiratory infection, and you have a high temperature or feel unwell, they should "avoid close contact with anyone who you know is at higher risk of becoming seriously unwell, especially those whose immune system means that they are at higher risk of serious illness, despite vaccination." UKHSA advice on reducing chance of passing on infection to others: Wear a well-fitting face covering made with multiple layers or a surgical face mask Avoid crowded places such as public transport, large social gatherings, or anywhere that is enclosed or poorly ventilated Taking any exercise outdoors in places where you will not have close contact with other people Covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze; wash your hands frequently with soap and water for 20 seconds or use hand sanitiser after coughing, sneezing and blowing your nose and before you eat or handle food; avoid touching your face. For more information and advice, click here. Symptoms include: severe sore throat fatigue mild cough fever muscle aches congestion
Daily Mirror
4 days ago
- Health
- Daily Mirror
When your cough could be a sign of the new Covid variant sweeping UK
New Covid variant NB.1.8.1 is one of six added to the World Health Organization's watch-list in the last few weeks, and 13 cases have been in England since January A new Covid variant that is making up one in 10 Covid-19 infections around the world has been added to the World Health Organization's (WHO) watch-list in the last two weeks. The strain, named NB.1.8.1, first appeared on January 21, and by late April 2025 it was counting for around 10.7 percent of all global infections – up from just 2.5 percent four weeks previously, the WHO said. While all the various Covid-19 strains cause similar symptoms, NB.1.8.1 may be more transmissible than previous variants - though the WHO has stressed that it doesn't appear to cause worse symptoms or more serious illness. At least 13 cases have already been confirmed in England, according to UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) data from PCR-positive Covid samples, with a further seven in Northern Ireland, according to the Public Health Agency. The latest UKHSA data shows Covid-19 activity increased slightly in England between May 26 and June 1. Weekly hospital admissions from the virus slightly increased to 1.49 per 100,000 patients, compared with 1.40 per 100,000 in the previous week. NB.1.8.1 has already become the dominant strain in China - where the disease originated from - and Hong Kong, with more confirmed cases in the USA, Australia and popular holiday countries like the Maldives, Egypt and Thailand. Brits who are finding themselves with cold symptoms may actually have Covid - which, according to the NHS, has one tell-tale sign: a new, continuous cough. By this, it means coughing excessively for more than an hour, or having three or more coughing fits within 24 hours. You may also experience: Those with Covid symptoms have been given advice to "stay at home" by top health officials. The UKHSA advises people with a high temperature, or who do not feel well enough to go to work, school, provide childcare or do normal activities, to "avoid contact with vulnerable people and stay at home if possible". Dr Gayatri Amirthalingam, UKHSA Deputy Director, said: "NB.1.8.1 has been detected in small numbers in the UK to date, but international data suggests that it is growing as a proportion of all Covid-19 cases. "Based on the available information so far however, there is no evidence to suggest that this variant causes more severe disease than previous variants, or that the vaccines in current use will be less effective against it." NB.1.8.1 was added to a World Health Organization (WHO) watch list on May 23. It is one of six Covid-19 variants currently being monitored by the organisation. There are currently no Covid-19 restrictions in the UK, the UKHSA said. The WHO has said it is not advising that travel restrictions are imposed in light of the new variant. "WHO recommends that countries remain vigilant, adapt to evolving epidemiological trends, and leverage Covid-19 management strategies to strengthen systems for all respiratory disease threats," it said in a report. "Member States should continue offering Covid-19 vaccines in line with WHO recommendations. Based on the current risk assessment of this event, WHO advises against imposing travel or trade restrictions."
Wales Online
4 days ago
- Health
- Wales Online
New UKHSA Covid advice as Brits told to 'stay at home' and new variant detected
New UKHSA Covid advice as Brits told to 'stay at home' and new variant detected The UKHSA has issued advice to Brits with Covid-19 symptoms after a new strain, called NB.1.8.1, was detected in small numbers in the UK with an increase in hospital admissions (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto ) Britons exhibiting Covid symptoms have been urged to "stay at home" by leading health experts, following the emergence of a new variant that has brought about an uptick in hospitalisations. The novel strain, dubbed NB. 1.8. 1, has been spotted in modest quantities within the UK, with England confirming 13 cases based on PCR-positive Covid samples from the UK Health Security Agency. Recent data from the UKHSA, covering the period from May 26 to June 1, indicates a marginal rise in Covid-19 activity in England. Rates of weekly hospital admissions due to the virus have seen a slight ascent to 1.49 per every 100,000 individuals, a minor increase from the 1.40 per 100,000 reported in the preceding week. Dr Gayatri Amirthalingam, Deputy Director at the UKHSA, mentioned: "NB.1.8.1 has been detected in small numbers in the UK to date, but international data suggests that it is growing as a proportion of all COVID-19 cases." She further clarified: "Based on the available information so far however, there is no evidence to suggest that this variant causes more severe disease than previous variants, or that the vaccines in current use will be less effective against it.", reports the Mirror. The WHO included NB. 1.8.1 on its watch list as of May 23. This variant is one of six Covid-19 strains presently under surveillance by the global health body. Article continues below Initially identified on January 21, by late April 2025 NB. 1.8. 1 accounted for approximately 10.7 percent of global infections, marking a steep climb from the mere 2.5 percent recorded four weeks earlier, per the WHO's findings. A person views the NHS app on a mobile phone. (Image: PA ) The WHO suggested in a recent statement that the strain might be more contagious than its predecessors, however, it seems not to aggravate symptoms or lead to more severe illness. UKHSA's advice for Brits regarding Covid is to remain alert, sans any restrictions. According to WHO, imposing travel limitations isn't advised in response to the new variant. Their report read: "WHO recommends that countries remain vigilant, adapt to evolving epidemiological trends, and leverage COVID-19 management strategies to strengthen systems for all respiratory disease threats. "Member States should continue offering COVID-19 vaccines in line with WHO recommendations. Based on the current risk assessment of this event, WHO advises against imposing travel or trade restrictions." For those displaying Covid symptoms or feeling unwell enough to attend work or other activities, the UKHSA recommends avoiding contact with vulnerable individuals and staying home where feasible. A blog post from the agency underscored: "The most important thing to do is to get your vaccination when it is due if you're eligible." It also reaffirmed that vaccinations are the most effective way to protect against serious consequences and hospitalisations caused by flu and Covid-19. According to the latest updates, the spring 2025 Covid booster programme will stay open to qualified cohorts until June 17, with bookings via the NHS App, its website, or the 119 helpline readily available. Questions remain about the specific symptoms of Covid variant NB. 1.8.1. Article continues below The symptoms of the new strain are thought to be identical to those of previous Covid variants. The NHS has stated that the common symptoms of Covid-19, which closely resemble those of other illnesses like colds and flu, include:. The NHSM asserts that most individuals with Covid experience improvement within a few weeks, though recovery may take longer for some. For certain individuals, the illness can be more severe and symptoms may persist for an extended period.
Daily Record
5 days ago
- Health
- Daily Record
UKHSA Covid variant NB.1.8.1 advice to 'stay home' as new virus strain discovered
The UK Health Security Agency said there have been a number of confirmed cases of a new strain - called NB.1.8.1 - and that there has been an increase in hospital admissions. Scots suffering from Covid symptoms have been urged to stay at home - as a government body said a new strain of the virus has been discovered in the UK. The UK Health Security Agency said there have been a number of confirmed cases of a new strain - called NB.1.8.1 - and that there has been an increase in hospital admissions. There were 13 confirmed cases in England, according to data from PCR-positive Covid samples. The latest UKHSA data shows Covid-19 activity increased slightly in England between May 26 and June 1. Weekly hospital admissions from the virus slightly increased to 1.49 per 100,000 patients, compared with 1.40 per 100,000 in the previous week, The Mirror reports. Dr Gayatri Amirthalingam, UKHSA Deputy Director, said: "NB.1.8.1 has been detected in small numbers in the UK to date, but international data suggests that it is growing as a proportion of all COVID-19 cases. "Based on the available information so far however, there is no evidence to suggest that this variant causes more severe disease than previous variants, or that the vaccines in current use will be less effective against it." NB.1.8.1 was added to a World Health Organisation (WHO) watch list on May 23. It is one of six Covid-19 variants currently being monitored by the organisation. The new strain was first recorded on January 21. By late April 2025, it made up roughly 10.7 per cent of all global infections – up from just 2.5 per cent four weeks prior, according to the WHO. The WHO said in a statement that the strain could potentially be more transmissible than previous variants. However, it does not appear to cause worse symptoms or more serious illness. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. UKHSA Covid advice to Brits There are currently no Covid-19 restrictions in the UK, the UKHSA says. The WHO has said it is not advising that travel restrictions are imposed in light of the new variant. It stated in a report: "WHO recommends that countries remain vigilant, adapt to evolving epidemiological trends, and leverage COVID-19 management strategies to strengthen systems for all respiratory disease threats. "Member States should continue offering COVID-19 vaccines in line with WHO recommendations. Based on the current risk assessment of this event, WHO advises against imposing travel or trade restrictions." The UKHSA advises people with symptoms of Covid, a high temperature, or who do not feel well enough to go to work, school, childcare, or do normal activities to "avoid contact with vulnerable people and stay at home if possible".v It said in a blog post: "The most important thing to do is to get your vaccination when it is due if you're eligible." The UKHSA added: "Vaccines remain our best defence against severe disease and hospitalisation from flu and COVID-19." It says the spring 2025 Covid booster programme remains open to eligible groups until June 17, who can book via the NHS App, website or by phoning 119. What are the symptoms of Covid NB.1.8.1? Symptoms of the new strain are believed to be the same as earlier variants of the Covid virus. The NHS says common symptoms of Covid-19, which are very similar to symptoms of other illnesses, such as colds and flu, include: A high temperature or shivering (chills) A new, continuous cough A loss or change to your sense of smell or taste Shortness of breath Feeling tired or exhausted An aching body or a headache A sore throat, blocked or runny nose Loss of appetite, feeling sick or being sick Diarrhoea According to the NHSM, most people with Covid feel better within a few weeks, but it can take longer to recover. For some people, it can be a more serious illness and their symptoms can last longer.
