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As of early October 2025, the Stratus COVID-19 variant (XFG and XFG.3) has become dominant in the US, causing persistent respiratory symptoms but no increased severity. Meanwhile, Japan faces an unusually early and rapid influenza epidemic, with hospitals filling and schools closing. Experts urge vaccination and hygiene to mitigate these overlapping respiratory threats.
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Recent UK Covid-19 Inquiry testimonies reveal Boris Johnson's government delayed planning and underestimated the impact of school closures on children. Evidence suggests many children suffered long-term health and developmental issues, including Long Covid, with critics calling the response a failure. The inquiry continues to examine accountability.
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A new report from the UK Covid-19 inquiry criticizes the government led by Boris Johnson for a "lack of urgency" in 2020, concluding that earlier lockdowns could have saved over 23,000 lives. The inquiry highlights a chaotic culture at Number 10 and delays in decision-making, with all four UK nations acting too late to contain the virus.