Scientists have raised the alarm over a new Covid variant driving up hospital admissions across the UK. Our new map shows the infection rates where you live.
The variant KP.3 emerged in early April and belongs to a new group of COVID-19 variants, known collectively as FLiRT, which now make up a large proportion of cases. In the week up to June 12, cases rose by 7.8%, with 2,053 people reporting having contracted the virus. Covid deaths rose by 26.4% in the week up to June 7, going from 110 to 139.
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The highest hospital admission rate for confirmed COVID-19 continue to be in those aged over 85 years, increasing to 34.70 per 100,000 following a short interval of decreases. However, increases also occurred for those aged between 65 and 74 years, those aged between 75 and 84 years, and most of the younger age groups.
The diminishing immunity of the general population has been considered a reason for the spread of the variant and, whilst the recorded infections are lower than the previous spring, winter, and autumn, the UKHSA figures show the proportion of positive test results among people suspected of having Covid rose by 19% in a week, from 8.4% to 10%.
Professor Steve Griffin, of Leeds University, said: “Another wave [of Covid] is building.” He labelled the rise in hospitalisations worrying, especially as the uptake for the spring booster for those who are vulnerable was lower than in 2023. He added: “There is a considerable difference between the current vaccines and circulating viruses.”
You can look at the cases of the variant where you live using the interactive map below.
Sarah Carter is a health and wellness expert residing in the UK. With a background in healthcare, she offers evidence-based advice on fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being, promoting healthier living for readers.
