Health officials are urging people to seek immediate medical help if they notice three particular symptoms appearing alongside Covid, as these could signal a more serious infection.According to the latest data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), Covid cases have dipped slightly but remain present at “low levels” across the country. Hospital admissions have also fallen modestly, with weekly test positivity dropping to 10.3 percent from 11.9 percent the week before.Despite the decline, people aged 85 and older continue to face the greatest risk of being hospitalised with the virus. Experts stress that identifying certain warning symptoms early can be key to preventing complications and ensuring timely treatment.3 Covid Symptoms That Are Major WarningPeople are being urged to seek urgent medical advice if they or their child develop three specific symptoms while infected with Covid, as it may point to a more serious illness.Health experts recommend contacting a GP or calling for medical assistance if symptoms such as a rash, loss of appetite, or unusual weakness appear. Immediate help is also advised if a high temperature of 38°C or above lasts for five days or fails to reduce with paracetamol.Medical attention is further encouraged if symptoms worsen, show no improvement, or if you are unsure how to manage them. For infants, extra caution is necessary as any baby under three months old with a temperature of 38°C or higher, or a child aged three to six months with a temperature above 39°C, should be assessed by a healthcare professional.Covid Booster Shots: Who Can Get Them This AutumnThe eligibility rules for Covid booster vaccines have been updated for the current autumn rollout. While earlier boosters were offered to people aged 65 and above and those with certain long-term conditions, this year’s criteria have been made more specific.Those eligible for the latest booster include:Adults aged 75 and over, including anyone who will turn 75 by January 31, 2026Individuals aged six months to 74 years with a weakened immune system due to illness or medical treatmentResidents of care homes for older adultsHealth officials continue to encourage eligible groups to stay up to date with vaccinations, especially heading into the winter season, when respiratory infections tend to rise.COVID-19 Variant Stratus: What You Should KnowA new COVID-19 strain known as Stratus, officially labeled XFG, has begun to circulate globally. First identified in Southeast Asia in January 2025, the variant quickly spread across 38 countries by mid-year. The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified Stratus as a “variant under monitoring,” meaning it is being closely studied to understand its transmission rate, symptom pattern, and potential health impact.Frankenstein Variant: Common Symptoms of StratusFor most people, especially those who are vaccinated or boosted, Stratus infections appear to be mild to moderate. Still, recognising its symptoms early remains important.The most common signs include:Persistent dry coughTiredness or fatigueFeverOther possible symptoms:Shortness of breath or chest tightnessSore or scratchy throatHeadache and body achesUpset stomach, nausea, or loss of appetiteLoss of taste or smell (now less frequent)Brain fog or difficulty concentratingIf you notice these symptoms, monitor your condition closely and contact a healthcare provider if they worsen or persist. Vaccination and booster doses remain key to reducing the severity of illness and preventing complications.
Email
Google
Facebook Email Google Facebook