Nikhil Prasad Fact checked by:Thailand Medical News Team Jul 29, 2024 1 month, 2 weeks, 6 days, 22 hours, 55 minutes ago
COVID-19 News: The United Kingdom is experiencing a surge in COVID-19 cases and hospital admissions, driven by a new variant known as KP.3. The latest data reveals a worrying 20% increase in weekly deaths, with the infection rate rising significantly. This
COVID-19 News report delves into the current situation, exploring the impact of the KP.3 variant, the response from health authorities, and what the public needs to know.
KP.3 variant causing rising COVID-19 cases and deaths in the United Kingdom
A Surge in Cases and Deaths
As of July 17, 2024, the UK has reported a total of 3,557 new COVID-19 cases. This marks a notable increase from previous weeks, reflecting a broader trend seen across Europe. In the seven days leading up to July 12, there were 197 deaths among individuals who tested positive for Covid-19, representing a 20% rise from the previous week. Hospital admissions have also surged, with 2,797 patients admitted in the week ending June 28.
https://ukhsa-dashboard.data.gov.uk/
The KP.3 Variant: A New Challenge
The KP.3 variant, a FluQE variants, has emerged as a significant concern.
https://www.thailandmedical.news/news/forget-about-sars-cov-2-flirt-variants-kp-1-1-and-kp-2-new-fluqe-variant-kp-3-expected-to-rapidly-become-globally-predominant-wreaking-havoc
Initially identified in the USA, where it has become the most prevalent strain, KP.3 is now gaining traction in the UK. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), KP.3 accounts for 25% of Covid-19 cases in the USA, and its presence is steadily rising in the UK.
Symptoms and Health Impact
Those infected with the KP.3 variant are exhibiting a range of symptoms, similar to other Covid-19 strains. Key symptoms include:
Fever or chills
Cough
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
Fatigue
Muscle or body aches
Headache
New loss of taste or smell
Sore throat
Congestion or runny nose
Nausea or vomiting
Diarrhoea
The similarity in symptoms can make it challenging to distinguish KP.3 from other variants without specific testing.
However, reports have emerged that the KP.3 variant also causes somnolence and shingles.
https://www.thailandmedical.news/news/somnolence-and-shingles-seems-to-be-new-symptom-manifestation-of-covid-19-kp-3-and-lb-1-infections
Spike in COVID-19 test kit
sales and medications
The increase in cases has led to a 319% spike in sales of Covid lateral flow tests at Superdrug, a popular high street retailer. Additionally, there has been a 297% increase in the purchase of cold and flu relief sachets, indicating a broader rise in illness across the UK this summer.
Response from Health Authorities
In response to the rising cases, health authorities have issued several advisories. The NHS has recommended that individuals stay at home and avoid contact with others if they or their children experience symptoms like a high temperature or feel too unwell to engage in normal activities.
International Trends
The surge in Covid-19 cases is not confined to the UK. Other European countries, including Greece, Poland, Romania, Italy, Germany have also reported increased case numbers, leading to the reintroduction of mask-wearing rules in some geolocations following a rise in hospitalizations. This trend underscores the continuing global challenge posed by Covid-19 and the importance of vigilance and preparedness.
Public Health and Safety
With the rise of the KP.3 variant and the corresponding increase in Covid-19 cases and deaths, public health measures are more important than ever. Superdrug’s report of increased sales in vitamins that support immunity, such as Vitamin D and Zinc, reflects a growing public awareness of the need to bolster personal health defenses. (Whether they work in the current COVID-19 surge is a big question mark!)
Conclusion
The emergence of the KP.3 variant and the associated rise in Covid-19 cases and deaths in the UK highlight the ongoing challenges of managing the pandemic. As health authorities and the public navigate this new phase, vaccination, testing, and adherence to public health guidelines remain critical. By staying informed and taking proactive measures, individuals can contribute to reducing the spread of the virus and protecting vulnerable populations.
For the latest
COVID-19 News, keep on logging to Thailand Medical News
Read Also:
https://www.thailandmedical.news/news/covid-19-cases-increased-in-texas-by-nearly-32-percent-july-7-13-compared-to-the-previous-week-s-levels
https://www.thailandmedical.news/news/paraguay-facing-a-multifaceted-threat-of-respiratory-infections-including-covid-19-influenza-and-rhinovirus
https://www.thailandmedical.news/news/sars-cov-2-kp-3-1-1-variant-doubles-covid-19-cases-to-13672-in-a-week-in-italy
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