The number of people being hospitalized with Covid in the UK has increased rapidly due to the emergence of a new variant of the virus, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). The admission rate for patients testing positive for Covid XEC has risen to 4.5 per 100,000 people in the week to October 6, up from 3.7 the previous week. The North East has the highest hospital admission rates at 8.12 per 100,000, with rates of 52.48 per 100,000 for those aged 85 and older.
Experts say that staying up to date with vaccines and booster shots should provide enough protection against severe illness and hospitalization, even with the new variant being a sub-family of the omicron lineage.
The NHS has begun offering autumn Covid boosters to the most vulnerable groups, including over-65s, people aged between six months and 64 years with underlying health conditions, pregnant women, residents of care homes for older people, frontline NHS and social care workers, and those working in care homes for older people. These groups can get their booster shots between October 3 and December 20.
Around 11 million people have been contacted directly by the NHS to schedule their booster appointments. However, those eligible for the booster shot can also book appointments through the NHS App, GPs, pharmacies, drop-in clinics, or by calling 119. High Street chemists and private clinics also offer the Pfizer Covid vaccine for prices ranging from £45 to £99. Individuals must be 12 years or older and should not have received a Covid vaccine in the previous three months.
Currently, the UK is using vaccines from Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna. It is advised to take whichever vaccine is offered, as both provide protection against severe illness and death.
It is crucial to stay informed about the eligibility criteria for the Covid booster shot and know the various ways to schedule an appointment to ensure the safety of yourself and those around you during this ongoing pandemic.
