Omicron becomes dominant variant in London; hospitalisations rise as Christmas nears
The UK has recorded its highest-ever daily Covid cases, with a staggering 78,610 new infections confirmed on December 15, 2021. This surge is largely attributed to the rapid spread of the Omicron variant, which is now believed to be the dominant strain in London.
During a press conference, Chief Medical Officer Chris Whitty stated that a significant increase in hospitalisations due to Omicron is highly likely. He also warned of staff shortages within the NHS over the Christmas period as more people fall ill. Prime Minister Boris Johnson advised caution when attending holiday parties and urged people to meet only those who truly matter to reduce transmission.
The UK is currently facing “two epidemics on top of one another” as both Omicron and the Delta variant continue to spread. Omicron cases have now surpassed 10,000, and Scotland has seen a 140% rise in Omicron cases in just one day.
In other developments, the UK government has introduced new measures to manage the crisis, including easing isolation rules for close contacts to avoid further disruptions. However, the country is also bracing for potential school closures and is preparing to recall Parliament should further restrictions be necessary.
