Health authorities in England are raising the alarm following a steady increase in COVID-19 infections, urging vulnerable populations to exercise caution as the country moves further into the spring season.
According to the latest data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), the nation’s COVID-19 positivity rate climbed from 4.2% to 4.5% in the week ending April 6 — marking a 7% rise in positive cases. The figure is more than double the 2.2% recorded at the beginning of January.
Experts attribute the uptick to seasonal factors and increased indoor social activities. “Seasonal changes and increased indoor social mixing can contribute to the spread, much like we see with other respiratory viruses,” said Dr. Wylie, a health specialist with the UKHSA.
Current dominant symptoms include sore throat, cough, congestion, and fatigue. Dr. Wylie noted that fewer patients are now reporting a loss of taste or smell, a once-common indicator of infection.
Despite the rise in cases, health officials are stressing the continued effectiveness of vaccines. “Those who received the coronavirus vaccine had a more than 40% lower chance of being hospitalized than those who were unvaccinated,” the UKHSA stated.
In response to the increase, the National Health Service (NHS) has rolled out its spring booster campaign, which runs from April 1 to June 17. Approximately 7.5 million people are eligible for the booster, including individuals over 75, people with weakened immune systems, and others at high risk.
“We are particularly urging the unvaccinated and vulnerable to take this opportunity to get protected,” Dr. Wylie added.
Health officials continue to monitor the situation closely and are advising the public to remain cautious, especially those in vulnerable groups.
