Amidst increasing COVID-19 hospitalizations, UK records 168 COVID-19 deaths in a week
Nikhil Prasad Fact checked by:Thailand Medical News Team Jul 12, 2024 5 months, 1 week, 5 days, 16 hours, 12 minutes ago
COVID-19 News: As COVID-19 hospitalizations increase across the United Kingdom, new data reveals a concerning rise in deaths attributed to the virus. In the week leading up to June 28, the UK recorded 168 COVID-19 deaths, marking a significant spike in fatalities. Experts warn that the current high pollen counts may be causing confusion, as many Brits could mistake COVID-19 symptoms for hay fever. Local
COVID-19 News outlets are reporting that without proper COVID-19 testing being conducted, many locals and even doctors are mistaking COVID-19 infections for common hay fever attacks.
Amidst increasing COVID-19 hospitalizations, UK records 168 COVID-19 deaths in a week
The FLuQE Variants: A New Threat
The recent surge in COVID-19 cases is attributed to a new variant dubbed FLuQE, which has been mistaken for hay fever due to similar symptoms such as coughing and runny noses. This confusion is exacerbated by the high pollen counts associated with summer, making it difficult for individuals to differentiate between the two conditions. The FluQE variants include KP.3, KP.3.1, KP.3.1.1 and KP.3.3.
Thailand Medical News would like to add that even the KP variants are at the moment still evolving and mutating at an unprecedented rate and are spewing out hundreds of new sublineages with spotting varying mutations of them.
According to government figures, COVID-19 cases increased by 17.5% in the week ending June 28. This rise coincides with a 2.2% increase in hospitalizations, bringing the total number of hospitalized patients to 2,797. Although there was a 16.6% decrease in the number of people currently infected with the virus, the positivity rate for tests remains high at 14.6%.
https://ukhsa-dashboard.data.gov.uk/
Hay Fever vs. COVID-19: Spotting the Difference
Experts have cautioned that misidentifying COVID-19 as hay fever can be dangerous. The FLuQE variants, responsible for the increase in hospital admissions, accounts for approximately 40% of all COVID-19 cases in the UK and an alarming 69% in the US.
Hay fever, or allergic rhinitis, affects around 20% of the UK population annually. The NHS has reported a 147% increase in individuals seeking advice for hay fever symptoms this summer. This overlap in symptoms, such as fever, persistent cough, sore throat, upset stomach, and loss or change in taste and smell, makes it challenging to distinguish between hay fever and the contagious FLuQE variants of COVID-19.
Medical experts warn that past COVID-19 infections can heighten susceptibility to allergies. "Infections can activate the immune response in what's called mast cell activation syndrome. While more studies are needed, it could be that some of those who have been infected with COVID-19 may then develop hay fever."
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Implications and Precautions
The rising COVID-19 death toll and hospitalizations underscore the importance of accurate symptom identification and appropriate health measures. As the FLuQE variants spreads it is crucial for individuals to remain vigilant and seek medical advice if they experience symptoms resembling hay fever or COVID-19.
The NHS and public health officials emphasize the need for continued adherence to COVID-19 guidelines, testing, and self-isolation when necessary. Understanding the differences between hay fever and COVID-19 symptoms can help prevent the further spread of the virus and protect vulnerable populations.
In conclusion, the surge in COVID-19 deaths and hospitalizations in the UK highlights the ongoing challenges posed by the pandemic. The overlap of hay fever and COVID-19 symptoms complicates the situation, making it essential for the public to stay informed and cautious. As health authorities monitor the situation, efforts to combat the FLuQE variants and other emerging strains remain a priority.
A Call to Action: Stay Vigilant
Public health officials urge Brits to take any symptoms seriously and not dismiss them as mere hay fever. With the FLuQE variants contributing to the rise in COVID-19 cases and hospital admissions, it is vital to recognize the potential risks and seek appropriate medical care. By staying informed and cautious, individuals can help reduce the spread of COVID-19 and protect themselves and their communities.
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COVID-19 News, keep on logging to Thailand Medical News.
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https://www.thailandmedical.news/news/covid-19-infections-rising-in-portugal-italy-and-spain
https://www.thailandmedical.news/news/covid-19-hospitalizations-reach-record-highs-in-british-columbia-canada
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