Remember COVID? It certainly remembers us. Health officials report cases have doubled since January, proving the pandemic’s legacy continues. While not approaching previous crisis levels, this persistent increase has experts reminding the public not to let their guard down completely.
The UK’s latest figures show a clear upward trend, with test positivity rising from 2.2% to 4.5% since January. Hospitalizations have increased by 7%, though current numbers represent just a quarter of last summer’s peak. About 1 in 330 people now carry the virus.
Dr. Wylie explains this pattern reflects natural virus evolution and immunity changes. “It’s becoming seasonal, like flu, but still demands our attention,” he notes. Those overdue for boosters or without recent infections face highest risk.
Modern COVID often manifests as respiratory symptoms – sore throats, coughs, congestion – with less frequent loss of taste or smell. For vulnerable populations, the NHS offers spring boosters until June 17, covering seniors, care home residents, and those with compromised immune systems.
