The NHS has issued urgent health guidance as the XFG variant of coronavirus continues to dominate Covid cases across the UK. Britons experiencing certain symptoms are being urged to seek immediate GP appointments or call 111 for support.
The XFG variant has been steadily dominating coronavirus cases nationwide, coinciding with a broader rise in respiratory infections. Latest government figures show both flu and Covid-19 cases have increased since late September as temperatures drop across the country.
Rising infection rates
Covid-19 positivity rates jumped from 7.6% to 8.4% in a single week, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). Hospital admissions due to the virus also rose from 2 per 100,000 to 2.73 per 100,000 people.
Dr Jamie Lopez Bernal, Consultant Epidemiologist at UKHSA, said: "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."
He emphasised that vaccination offers the best protection against flu, Covid-19 and RSV. People with symptoms such as high temperature, cough and feeling tired should limit contact with others, especially vulnerable individuals.
When to seek urgent care
The NHS advises seeking an urgent GP appointment or calling 111 if you experience specific warning signs. These include a high temperature lasting five days or more that cannot be treated with paracetamol.
Parents should seek immediate help if a child aged three to six months has a temperature of 39°C or higher. For babies under three months, urgent care is needed if their temperature reaches 38°C or higher.
Other urgent symptoms include experiencing a rash, loss of appetite, or feeling weak. You should also seek help if Covid-19 symptoms are getting worse instead of better, or if you're worried about symptoms and don't know what to do.
The NHS guidance comes as health officials urge eligible groups to get vaccinated before winter virus circulation peaks. Regular hand washing and wearing face coverings when leaving the house with symptoms remain key prevention measures.
Sources used: "Mirror", "Manchester Evening News", "Daily Record" Note: This article has been created with Artificial Intelligence (AI).
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