Positive Covid tests in the UK rose to approximately 7% in September, while hospital admissions increased by roughly 50% over the same period, as cases of the variant dubbed 'American Covid' continue to climb.
What is the 'American Covid' variant?
The variant, officially known as XFG or Stratus, is not new and has been in circulation for around a year. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) states there is currently no evidence to suggest it causes more severe illness than other variants. The nickname refers to where it was first sequenced rather than where it originated.
The symptoms closely resemble those of previous Omicron subvariants, behaving much like a severe winter cold or flu. Health experts and the UKHSA maintain that it does not cause more serious clinical illness; however, certain distinctive symptoms have been widely reported by patients. These include a hoarse or croaky voice, a severe sore throat, a new and continuous cough, and sinus congestion.
Six ways to protect yourself this winter
Dr Donald Grant, GP and Senior Clinical Advisor at The Independent Pharmacy, has outlined six practical measures to safeguard yourself and those around you as we head into winter. He said: "It's normal to see Covid rise at this time of year, as colder weather brings more of us indoors with the windows shut. For most people, XFG causes a mild illness similar to a bad cold, but it can still be serious for older people and those with weakened immune systems. The good news is that the same everyday habits that protect us from colds and flu also help reduce the spread of Covid."
1. Stay at home if you feel unwell
If you have a high temperature or feel too unwell to go about your normal daily routine, Dr Grant advises staying at home. This allows your body the chance to recuperate while preventing the virus from spreading to colleagues, friends or family. He explained: "Many people still push through and head into work with a fever. One of the biggest mistakes is assuming a cough or sore throat is 'just a cold', so if in doubt, rest up until you feel better and your temperature has settled."
2. Wear a face covering if you have to go out
"Sometimes staying at home isn't possible. If you have symptoms and need to go out, a well-fitting face covering can help reduce the amount of virus you spread when you cough, sneeze or talk," Dr Grant said. "Try to avoid crowded places, and keep your distance from anyone who may be more vulnerable, such as elderly relatives, pregnant women or people with long-term health conditions."
3. Let fresh air in
Covid spreads more readily in warm, stuffy rooms where air circulation is poor, Dr Grant explains. Opening a window for as little as ten minutes several times throughout the day can help dispel airborne particles, particularly when you have visitors or someone in the household is feeling unwell. "Where you can, choose to meet friends outdoors or in well-ventilated spaces. If you're exercising, getting outside is a good way to stay active while lowering your risk," he said.
4. Check whether you're eligible for a Covid vaccine
The NHS autumn Covid vaccination programme is now under way, making the jab available to adults aged 75 and over, care home residents and those with a compromised immune system. Getting vaccinated helps lower the risk of serious illness and hospitalisation, Dr Grant says. "If you're eligible, it's worth booking sooner rather than later, as protection takes a couple of weeks to build," he said. "You can often have your flu vaccine at the same appointment, so ask your GP surgery or local pharmacy."
5. Wash your hands regularly
Dr Grant said: "It sounds simple, but regular handwashing remains one of the most effective ways to stop germs spreading. Use soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating and after using public transport. Catch coughs and sneezes in a tissue, bin it straight away and wash your hands afterwards. If you're out and about, hand sanitiser is a useful backup."
6. Know when to seek help
Dr Grant said most people with Covid can manage symptoms at home with rest, plenty of fluids and paracetamol or ibuprofen if needed. Some people with XFG have reported a particularly painful sore throat, and a pharmacist can recommend suitable remedies to ease it. Get in touch with NHS 111 or your GP if your symptoms are deteriorating or you have concerns. If you are having difficulty breathing or experiencing chest pain, dial 999 immediately.
He added: "Overall, there's no need to panic about American Covid, but it is a good reminder that small changes can make a real difference over winter. Staying at home when unwell, letting fresh air in and getting vaccinated if you're eligible all help protect the people most likely to become seriously ill."
