Despite hopes that the COVID-19 pandemic was waning, recent data indicate a significant resurgence in cases. Since January 2025, the number of infections has more than doubled, underscoring that the virus remains a persistent threat. This uptick is attributed to waning vaccine immunity and the emergence of new variants.​

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reports that the positivity rate increased from 4.2% to 4.5% on April 6, 2025. Consequently, there has been a 7% rise in COVID-19 hospitalizations in England. In early January, the positivity rate was at a low of 2.2%, equating to roughly 1 in 330 individuals being infected.​

While the current infection levels are about 25% of last summer’s peak, health experts caution against complacency. Dr. Wylie emphasizes that individuals who haven’t received recent boosters or haven’t been infected recently are more susceptible to new variants. Data from the UKHSA indicates that vaccinated individuals had over a 40% reduced risk of hospitalization within two months post-vaccination compared to those unvaccinated.​

Dr. Wylie also notes that seasonal changes and increased indoor gatherings contribute to the virus’s spread, similar to other respiratory illnesses. Common symptoms now include sore throat, cough, congestion, fatigue, and occasionally fever or loss of taste or smell, though the latter is less common.​

Approximately 7.5 million people in England are eligible for the NHS spring booster vaccine, available from April 1 to June 17, 2025. That includes individuals aged 75 and older, residents of elderly care facilities, and those aged six months to 74 with compromised immune systems. Notably, individuals turning 75 by June 17 are also eligible.​

Health officials urge eligible individuals to receive their booster shots promptly to mitigate the risk of severe illness and curb the virus’s spread.