New covid wave grips UK as KP.3 variant wreaks havoc

LONDON: In recent weeks, concerns have escalated over the resurgence of a new wave of covid-19 cases in the UK, driven in part by the emergence of a new variant known as KP.3.

The variant is part of the “FLiRT” sublineage of Covid-19 virus. Reports indicate that KP.3 shares symptoms with JN.1, including fever, cough, loss of taste or smell, and fatigue.

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According to reports from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), there has been a rise in hospital admissions due to Covid-19. Hospitalisations increased by 24 per cent in just seven days, with concerns over the potential severity and transmissibility of the KP.3 variant.

As of June 26, one in every 25,000 British citizens was reported to be infected.

Authorities in the UK have advised strict measures to lessen transmission from person to person. Vulnerable populations, including the elderly and people with compromised immune systems, are advised to receive booster vaccinations to increase immunity against the new covid wave.

The UKHSA also advised people exhibiting symptoms of Covid-19 or flu to self-isolate and avoid contact with others to prevent further spread.

The UK government also reinstated the use of face masks among vulnerable groups and have sped up vaccination campaigns. UK has no legal mandates for isolation or testing, however.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) also took notice, with the organisation warning that new waves of covid infection could be exacerbated by other variants as well.