UK Faces Renewed Covid-19 Challenge from 'American Covid' Variant

The UK is experiencing a rise in Covid-19 cases driven by the Stratus variant, also known as 'American Covid', leading to increased hospital admissions and positive test results.

Key facts

• The UK is seeing a rise in Covid-19 cases in the autumn season.
• Hospital admissions linked to Covid-19 have increased by nearly 50%.
• The Stratus variant, known as 'American Covid', is driving these infections.
• Positive Covid test rates in hospitals have risen from 5.9% to 7%.
• London has seen an 80% increase in Covid-related hospital admissions in seven days.
• The Stratus variant first spread in the United States in January 2025.

Sources

• WION