A UK doctor warns summer travel, stress, and poor sleep may raise COVID risk. The fast-spreading XFG ‘Stratus’ variant now dominates in several regions.
COVID Alert: Summer Behaviours May Raise Infection Risk
Health experts are urging residents to stay cautious this summer as a fast-spreading COVID-19 variant—nicknamed Stratus—gains ground globally. Though often seen as a winter illness, doctors say COVID-19 remains a year-round threat, with summer lifestyles potentially increasing vulnerability.
Dominant Variant Identified
Recent data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) confirms that the XFG strain, known as Stratus, and its offshoot XFG.3, now account for nearly 40% of COVID-19 cases in England. The World Health Organization (WHO) has flagged its rapid global spread, prompting renewed calls for preventive health measures—even during the warmer months.
Year-Round Virus Circulation
Dr. Dave Nichols, an NHS general practitioner and resident physician for at-home testing provider MyHealthChecked, emphasized that viruses “don’t stick to seasons.” He warned that summer activities such as increased travel, irregular sleep, poor hydration, and high stress levels can lower immune defenses.
Doctor’s Advice for Strengthening Immunity
To lower infection risk, Dr. Nichols recommends proactive immune support:
- Sleep well: Aim for 7–9 hours to maintain immune cell function.
- Eat smart: Incorporate antioxidant-rich fruits, vegetables, fermented foods, and spices like garlic and turmeric.
- Stay hydrated: Water supports toxin removal and strengthens mucosal barriers.
- Get sunlight: 10–20 minutes daily for vitamin D; supplements if needed.
- Exercise moderately: Promotes circulation and immune balance—avoid overtraining.
- Manage stress: Chronic stress weakens immunity; mindfulness and outdoor time can help.
Variant Risk and Vaccine Effectiveness
According to UKHSA, between May 26 and June 8, XFG.3 accounted for 28.9% of COVID-19 cases in England, while XFG was responsible for 11.4%. However, early findings show no evidence that these strains cause more severe illness than earlier variants.
Dr. Alex Allen, a consultant epidemiologist at UKHSA, stated: “It is normal for viruses to mutate. Based on current data, vaccines remain effective, and there’s no indication that XFG or XFG.3 pose increased severity risks.”
Vaccine Updates and Ongoing Monitoring
Although the spring vaccination campaign has concluded, health authorities in Canada and abroad will continue to monitor new variants closely. The NHS and local public health agencies are expected to begin inviting eligible residents for winter COVID-19 vaccinations later this year.
As summer unfolds, doctors advise Canadians to enjoy the season—but to do so mindfully, keeping health and immunity top of mind.
