New Covid variant Eris found spreading rapidly in UK as cases spike across ages
05.08.2023 - 18:05
/ dailyrecord.co.uk
A new Covid variant has been found spreading across the UK, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).
Dubbed the Eris variant, EG.5.1 now accounts for one in seven Covid cases in the country as rates continue to rise. Although there has been a small spike in most age groups, the agency says overall hospital rates are low.
The strain, which descends from Omicron, was first raised as a concern by UKHSA on July 3. It is now the second most prevalent coronavirus strain in the UK after Arcturus.
It has also been found in countries across Europe, Asia and North America, while Japan recently reported a 'ninth wave' of Covid infections, reports The Mirror. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has added Eris to its list of variants under monitoring.
Eris is a strain of Omicron of which the top five symptoms are a runny nose, headache, fatigue (mild or severe), sneezing, and sore throat, according to the ZOE Health Study.
"We continue to see a rise in Covid-19 cases in this week’s report," said Dr Mary Ramsay, Head of Immunisation at the UKHSA, on the latest findings.
"We have also seen a small rise in hospital admission rates in most age groups, particularly among the elderly. Overall levels of admission still remain extremely low and we are not currently seeing a similar increase in ICU admissions. We will continue to monitor these rates closely.
"Regular and thorough hand washing helps protect you from Covid-19 and other bugs and viruses. If you have symptoms of a respiratory illness, we recommend staying away from others where possible. The NHS will be in contact in autumn 2023 when the seasonal vaccine is available for those who are eligible due to health conditions or age, and we urge everyone who is offered to take up