He said: “The new Cicada variant has now been identified in the UK and is expected to become the dominant strain. “This deceptive new strain can trick the immune system into not recognising that it is Covid and can allow for the Cicada variant to quickly spread across the UK. “I would urge everyone to consider a Spring vaccine, given it will be almost five years since they have had a Covid vaccine. Paul warns Brits to be cautious especially as the new Covid variant spreads and believes that anyone who might be under the weather and believes they have Covid should follow NHS advice. “It’s important that everyone does their part, if you are testing positive for Covid then please do follow the NHS guidelines and don’t go to crowded places.”

Source: The Times April 10, 2026 14:01 UTC