Science Weekly
Everything you need to know about Covid this autumn
Oct 3, 2024
This discussion dives into the new XEC variant and its implications for COVID-19 this autumn. It highlights the rise in cases and what it means for vaccination strategies, especially for older adults and frontline workers. Experts weigh in on the effectiveness of updated vaccines and the importance of booster shots. There's also a candid look at pandemic etiquette in our post-restriction world, featuring heartfelt stories from healthcare professionals about their ongoing challenges. A must-listen for anyone navigating the current landscape!
16:05
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Quick takeaways
- COVID-19 cases are rising in the UK, particularly among individuals aged 85 and older due to the new variant XEC.
- The upcoming autumn vaccine drive will target vulnerable populations, emphasizing the importance of vaccination alongside flu shots for better protection.
Deep dives
COVID-19 Case Trends and New Variants
Recent data indicates a rise in COVID-19 cases in the UK, with a 31% increase compared to the previous week. The positivity rate for COVID-19 swabs has climbed from just over 9% to 11.8%, while hospitalizations rose from 2.56 to 3.71 per 100,000 people. Most hospitalizations are occurring among individuals aged 85 and older, partly linked to the emergence of the new variant, XEC, which is spreading across multiple countries. Although this variant appears to be more transmissible, it has not been associated with more severe symptoms.
