New Covid variant surges: Spread being 'monitored closely' as officials tell Britons to take action

The North East is experiencing the highest hospital admission rates at 8.12 per 100,000, whilst those aged 85 and older face an alarming surge, reaching 52.48 per 100,000.

As winter approaches, experts are urging eligible individuals to get vaccinated against Covid-19, flu, and RSV to protect themselves and others from these seasonal threats.

Dr Jamie Lopez Bernal, Consultant Epidemiologist at UKHSA, said: "Covid-19 is continuing to circulate, with a slight increase in hospitalisations over the past two weeks.

"As winter approaches, we expect flu and RSV to increasingly circulate too, so if you're eligible to get vaccinated against the three main winter threats – Covid-19, flu and RSV – now is the time to take them up and get winter strong."

He added: "We understand people may be concerned about new variants. Our surveillance shows that where Covid cases are sequenced, around one in 10 are the 'XEC' lineage.

"Current information doesn't suggest we should be more concerned about this variant but we are monitoring this closely."

Dr Bernal emphasised the importance of limiting contact when unwell: "If you are showing 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."

While isolation rules are no longer mandatory, health officials advise staying at home for five days after a positive test. Those at higher risk should be avoided for ten days.

Recent data shows a 2.8 per cent increase in overall Covid diagnoses, following a 21.6 per cent spike in England the previous week.

In the week leading to October 2, England and Wales reported 2,912 new infections, a slight increase from the previous week. There were 128 Covid-related fatalities in the week before September 27.

Hospitalisations due to Covid stood at 2,622 in the seven days to September 28.

The NHS advises those with symptoms to stay home to avoid spreading the virus, stating: "You can go back to your normal activities when you feel better or do not have a high temperature."

The XEC strain of Covid-19 shares similar symptoms with other variants. These may include a high temperature, persistent cough, and fatigue.

Whilst the NHS advises that children with mild symptoms can attend school if they feel well enough, adults are encouraged to exercise caution.

The UKHSA continues to monitor the situation closely, with particular attention to the XEC strain's potential to become dominant.