Concerns are mounting amidst a new COVID-19 variant which is accounting for around 40% of new COVID cases in the US, CDC data showed.
The new variant, XBB.1.5, a mutation of Omicron, was first detected in India in August, but has since spread to over 70 countries, including the US and China. The new sub-variant has been found to be evasive of the antibodies from previous COVID-19 vaccinations.
Tim Spector, a genetic epidemiologist at Kings College London, has warned this new strain is the one to “watch out for” in 2023.
China, after recently easing their COVID restrictions, has seen the largest surge of this new variant. Multiple countries, including Australia, Canada, and Italy have announced new travel rules for those arriving from China.
As of 5 January, travellers from China into England will be required to show a negative Covid-19 test before departing. Downing Street indicated that details for travellers from Hong Kong would also be set out soon.
Students travelling back to University following the winter break should be aware of any changes to entry restrictions into the country.
See updates on COVID travel restrictions here.