The UK's Covid-19 death toll in hospitals rose by 616 to 18,738 by 1600 GMT on April 22, the health department said on Thursday (23).
It added that 138,078 people had tested positive for coronovirus so far.
England's Covid-19 death toll in hospitals, meanwhile, rose by 514 to 16,786.
NHS England said that the people were aged between 31 and 100 years old, and that 16 of the patients, who were aged between 37 and 92 years old, had no known underlying health condition.
Vaccine trial begins
In a sign of hope, a team at University dosed the first volunteers in a trial of their vaccine called "ChAdOx1 nCoV-19".
The Oxford scientists said last week that large-scale production capacity was being put in place to make millions of doses of the ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 shot, even before trials show whether it is effective.
They said the main focus of initial tests was "to find out if this vaccine is going to work against Covid-19, if it won’t cause unacceptable side effects and if it induces good immune responses".
Incidentally, Britain's GSK and France's Sanofi had last week announced an agreement to develop a Covid-19 vaccine, with trials starting in the second half of the year.
As many as 100 potential COVID-19 candidate vaccines are now under development by biotech and research teams around the world, and at least five of these are in preliminary testing in people in what are known as Phase 1 clinical trials.
Social distancing to continue
The government said last Thursday the full restrictions would remain in place for at least another three weeks, and its chief medical adviser, Chris Whitty, said on Wednesday some forms of social distancing would be needed for much longer.
Normal life will only return once an effective vaccine or treatment for COVID-19 is available, Whitty said at the government's daily news conference.
"Until we have those -- and the probability of having those any time in the next calendar year are incredibly small, and I think we should be realistic about that -- we're going to have to rely on other social measures," he said.
Tests to cover 300,000 households
The UK government plans to test a sample of 20,000 households for Covid-19 in the coming weeks to try to establish how far the disease has spread across the country.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock -- who has faced criticism over limited testing facilities for some health and social care workers -- said on Thursday (23) the research would help the government understand the trajectory of the disease better.
More than 18,000 British people have died in hospital of the disease so far, and the country is now in its fifth week of a lockdown that stops most people from leaving home other than to buy food, exercise, or undertake essential work.
The health depart said initial results from the research -- which it is conducting jointly with the Office for National Statistics and the University of Oxford -- would be available in early May.
Twenty thousand households from across England will take part in the pilot, which will be expanded to 300,000 households across the UK over the next 12 months.
Participants will provide weekly samples from self-administered nose and throat swabs for the first five weeks, which will show if they currently have the virus, and then monthly samples for the following year.
Adults from around 1,000 households will also provide blood samples to see if they have developed antibodies following an earlier infection with the coronavirus.
"Understanding more about the rate of COVID-19 infection in the general population, and the longer-term prevalence of antibodies, is a vital part of our ongoing response to this virus," Hancock said.
Tests will be administered by IQVIA, a US health data company that has worked before with Britain's state-run health service, and analysed in British government laboratories.
Mask advice
Ministers will review advice given by scientific advisers on whether the use of face masks in public is effective in preventing the transmission of the novel coronavirus, a spokesman for Prime Minister Boris Johnson said on Thursday.
Asked whether the government would recommend that the public wear face masks, the spokesman told reporters: "SAGE (the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies) met on Tuesday to look at further evidence relating to the effectiveness of masks in preventing transmission of the disease.
"They have finalised their advice and ministers will now be reviewing this to decide on any further action that might be needed."
The growing popularity of cats in the UK and beyond is being fuelled by a curious combination of celebrity influence and changing lifestyle habits. The so-called ‘Taylor Swift effect’ has contributed to a rise in cat ownership and feline-themed spaces, with pet cafés, retail outlets, and rescue lounges all capitalising on the craze.
The singer’s well-documented affection for her cats – Meredith, Olivia, and Benjamin – has had a cultural ripple effect, especially among younger generations. In the UK and the US, cat ownership is rising, while cafés and retailers are increasingly creating spaces and products tailored to cat lovers.
Rising pet ownership among younger adults
The United States now has 94 million households with at least one pet, up from 82 million the previous year. Of those, 49 million homes include at least one cat. While these numbers reflect trends in the US, the UK is not far behind. Pet ownership, especially among millennials and Gen Z, continues to grow, with younger adults more likely to care for multiple pets.
The UK is also seeing a rise in cat-focused events and experiencesiStock
Cats have become central to many people’s daily lives, not only as companions but also as part of their broader lifestyle. Taylor Swift’s cat-themed content, including cameos in her music videos and social media appearances, has helped drive interest among fans. The influence of celebrities like Swift has also prompted businesses to embrace feline culture in new ways.
Cafés combine coffee and cat cuddles
Across major cities, cafés that host rescue cats are gaining popularity. In London, venues inspired by US models such as Crumbs & Whiskers and The Catcade are becoming social hubs, offering customers the chance to unwind in cosy spaces shared with cats awaiting adoption.
Crumbs & Whiskers, with branches in Los Angeles and Washington, D.C., partners with rescue organisations to house adoptable cats in stylish lounges. The café model has proven successful in attracting visitors and raising awareness of adoption efforts.
Charleston’s Pounce Cat Café pairs drinks and feline company, while Chicago’s Catcade mixes retro arcade machines with cat rescue, offering a blend of entertainment and compassion.
Retail and rescue come together
The commercial response has extended beyond cafés. Retail brands such as Meow Parlour Shop in New York and Meowingtons in Florida have linked online shopping with feline welfare. Products range from cat-themed fashion to home accessories, and proceeds support rescue work.
In the UK, similar ventures are emerging, with independent retailers selling cat-inspired items that benefit shelters. These initiatives highlight how consumer interest in cats is being channelled into practical support for animal welfare.
Local events tap into feline fandom
The UK is also seeing a rise in cat-focused events and experiences. Inspired by US trends like KitTea Cat Lounge’s Pilates and wine nights or San Francisco’s Cello & Chill sessions, British organisers are exploring creative ways to connect people with rescue animals.
Taylor Swift UK fanbase may have helped bring cats into the cultural spotlightiStock
POP Cats, a US-based cat convention, has set a precedent for blending adoption drives with music, art, and pop culture. Such events have inspired similar concepts in the UK, often with the aim of promoting rescue adoptions and community engagement.
Insurance and policy adapt to the trend
The increasing integration of cats into everyday life is also prompting changes in pet care services. In the US, insurers such as Nationwide have introduced cat-specific health plans, covering routine wellness, behavioural therapy, and remote veterinary consultations. Similar policies are becoming more common in the UK, as providers respond to demand.
In addition, pet-friendly housing policies and local planning measures are gradually being introduced to reflect the growing number of pet-owning households. These changes suggest a longer-term shift in how cats are viewed within both homes and communities.
More than a trend
While the Taylor Swift UK fanbase may have helped bring cats into the cultural spotlight, the growth in feline ownership and visibility shows no sign of slowing. What started as a celebrity-driven interest has evolved into a broader movement that affects policy, retail, and community life.
Cafés, retailers, councils and pet insurance firms are responding in turn, recognising cats as central to modern domestic life. From playlists to public spaces, feline presence is no longer niche—it’s part of a new norm.
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Protect yourself and others during the warmer months
Colds and respiratory viruses are usually associated with winter, as colder weather drives people indoors and lowers the body’s natural defences. However, illnesses are still affecting people during the warmer months — and this summer, it could be down to a common virus or a new strain of Covid-19 now being monitored in the UK.
So, what’s behind that runny nose or sore throat, and how can you tell the difference?
New Covid strain under watch in the UK
A new Covid-19 variant, NB.1.8.1, is currently being monitored by health authorities. First detected in China in January, the variant is now being tracked by the World Health Organization due to mutations that may allow it to partially evade immune responses.
Dr Lindsay Broadbent, assistant professor in virology at the University of Surrey, said early data suggests the variant might have a slightly increased ability to bypass antibodies, although it does not appear to cause more severe illness. “People don’t need to be overly concerned,” she said.
According to the latest UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) data, 5.2 per cent of patients tested by GPs were positive for Covid-19, up from 4.5 per cent the previous week. Since NB.1.8.1 was first identified in the UK in January, 13 cases have been confirmed — 12 of which were reported in April and May. Around 50 positive tests are currently being sequenced weekly to determine the variant.
Dr Gayatri Amirthalingam, deputy director at UKHSA, noted that international data suggests NB.1.8.1 is growing in proportion globally, but there is no indication that it causes more severe illness or that current vaccines are less effective.
Summer colds still spreading
Although winter is typically associated with colds, certain viruses circulate more widely in summer. According to Prof Fidelma Fitzpatrick, head of clinical microbiology at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, viruses such as parainfluenza Type 3 and enteroviruses are more common in warmer months.
Other viruses, including adenoviruses and rhinoviruses — the typical causes of winter colds, can also continue to circulate in summer. “The risk of exposure depends on behaviour, the environment, and how widespread these viruses are at the time,” Dr Broadbent explained.
How can you tell the difference?NHS
Summer social activities, such as weddings, festivals, and holidays, increase the risk of virus transmission. People are often in close contact with others from different households and regions, raising the chance of catching something.
Lifestyle factors associated with summer — such as alcohol consumption, irregular sleep, and processed foods — can also weaken the immune system. Additionally, air conditioning may dry out the nasal passages, making it easier for viruses to infect.
It’s unclear whether summer colds are increasing, as the UKHSA does not track all cold-causing viruses. However, data shows a slight drop in parainfluenza cases in the week to 1 June.
Similar symptoms make diagnosis tricky
Both Covid-19 and summer colds typically cause mild symptoms. Prof Fitzpatrick said that most people infected with Covid will have cold-like signs, including a runny nose, sore throat, congestion, tiredness, and headaches.
Those with underlying health conditions may experience more severe symptoms or a longer illness. Unfortunately, symptoms of summer colds are almost identical, making it hard to tell the difference without testing.
Covid-19 tests remain available in pharmacies, starting at around £2. While there are no formal restrictions, public health advice recommends staying at home if you test positive.
How to reduce your risk of infection
There is no guaranteed way to avoid viruses entirely, but good hygiene and healthy habits can reduce the risk.
“Advice for avoiding summer colds is the same as at other times of year,” said Dr Broadbent. She recommends regular handwashing and good respiratory hygiene, including using tissues.
Prof Fitzpatrick advised staying well hydrated, limiting alcohol intake, and sanitising shared surfaces, such as gym equipment and aeroplane trays. Maintaining a strong immune system through sleep, balanced meals, and managing stress can also help.
Taking vitamin D supplements and drinking plenty of fluids may offer additional support. If you catch a cold, it’s best to avoid contact with vulnerable individuals, including older adults and those with lung or heart conditions.
Managing symptoms at home
Most people can recover from both Covid and summer colds at home. Prof Fitzpatrick recommends rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications such as paracetamol to relieve fever, aches, and headaches.
Decongestants and throat lozenges can ease nasal and throat discomfort. However, antibiotics are not effective for viral infections like Covid or colds.
Medical help should be sought if symptoms worsen or include difficulty breathing, chest pain, or confusion, especially for individuals with existing health issues.
Whether it's a summer cold or a new Covid variant, symptoms are often mild but still unpleasant. Understanding the cause and taking basic precautions — including testing if needed — can help protect yourself and others during the warmer months.
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Known for creating the “Don’t Die” project, Johnson has turned his body into a human laboratory
Bryan Johnson, a 47-year-old tech entrepreneur from California, has become a prominent figure in the global longevity movement, attracting both fascination and criticism for his intense health regime. Known for creating the “Don’t Die” project, Johnson has turned his body into a human laboratory, experimenting with extreme methods to delay ageing and boost long-term health.
From tech success to health obsession
Johnson made headlines in 2013 after selling his company, Braintree, to PayPal for $800 million. Following years of depression and personal upheaval, including leaving the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and divorcing his wife, Johnson redirected his focus to health and longevity.
Now, he claims to live with a singular goal: to be the healthiest and most biologically youthful person alive. He documents his journey on social media, where he has 1.8 million Instagram followers, and recently appeared in the Netflix documentary Don’t Die: The Man Who Wants to Live Forever.
A day in the life of Bryan Johnson
Johnson’s daily routine is strict and meticulously planned. He wakes at 4:30am and begins his day with light therapy to regulate his circadian rhythm, followed by exercise, sauna sessions, and hyperbaric oxygen therapy. He wears a red-light cap for hair growth and consumes a carefully measured breakfast.
He takes around 40 supplements each day, including vitamin D, magnesium, creatine and collagen peptides. His calorie intake is limited to 2,250 per day, with a focus on plant-based ingredients and healthy fats such as olive oil, which he includes in his shakes and meals. His final meal is consumed at least four hours before bedtime.
His bedtime is 8:30pm, following a wind-down routine involving reading, journaling and family time. He avoids evening exercise and limits screen time in the evening to promote better sleep.
Tracking health by the numbers
Johnson tracks an extraordinary range of metrics. He takes over 33,000 internal images daily via colonoscopy, monitors his heart rate and organ performance, and even uses the presence of night-time erections as a marker of biological health. He believes these physiological signs indicate whether the body is functioning at an optimal level.
His health data includes:
Heart health comparable to a 37-year-old
Skin age estimated at 28
Lung capacity of an 18-year-old
Body fat consistently between 5 and 6 per cent
One hour of daily exercise plus several high-intensity sessions weekly
Longevity as a lifestyle
For Johnson, rejuvenation is not a hobby but a competitive pursuit. “Rejuvenation is my sport,” he explains. “I feel energetic, clear-headed and my mood is stable. That’s my reward. It’s just a really great way to navigate life.”
He argues that most people begin by criticising his lifestyle but often reconsider once they see results. “People are initially critical, then they want to feel good too – and then they change their habits.”
Despite his regimented lifestyle, Johnson makes space for community. He hosts early morning dance parties and evening gatherings to maintain social connections, which he views as essential for health and longevity. He describes socialising as “one of the most important things anyone can do.”
Parenting and personal life
Johnson shares his health principles with his teenage son, Talmage, and the pair enjoy outdoor sports such as hiking, biking and running. He has previously undergone plasma transfusions involving his son, although he has since moved on to other treatments.
He discontinued taking rapamycin after research suggested it could accelerate ageingNetflix
His approach to relationships and dating is less straightforward. He admits that his tightly structured life can make romantic partnerships difficult due to scheduling demands.
Treatments he’s abandoned
Johnson is open about treatments that have not worked. He discontinued taking rapamycin after research suggested it could accelerate ageing, despite initial promise in anti-ageing studies.
He also avoids environmental pollutants by minimising plastic use in his home and kitchen, testing water monthly for contaminants, and even manufacturing some of his own food to control for heavy metals.
A controversial but influential figure
While his methods may appear extreme, Johnson says he is motivated by a desire to avoid the health decline he experienced during his depression. “The greatest joy in my day is that I don’t feel depressed,” he says. “Even though I take so much heat in the world… I feel great, I’m having fun and I enjoy life.”
Rather than aiming to live forever, he says his focus is simply not wanting to die now. “We all want to wake up tomorrow and feel great, for our body to move, and to have no aches and pains. It’s about being your best, moment to moment.”
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The Matilda chocolate cake has gained popularity over the years
A new chocolate cake inspired by the famous scene in Matilda has launched in Tesco stores across the UK, capturing attention from chocolate fans nationwide. Developed by Studio Bakery, the indulgent cake pays tribute to the iconic moment when Bruce Bogtrotter was forced to eat a large chocolate cake by Miss Trunchbull in Roald Dahl’s beloved story.
24-layer chocolate cake now in Tesco
The Studio Bakery Matilda cake, now available in Tesco branches and online, is described as a rich, decadent dessert featuring 24 layers of chocolate sponge and ganache. The cake is made with an all-butter dark chocolate sponge and is finished with a luscious chocolate ganache, offering a fudgy and gooey texture.
Studio Bakery, based in Lancashire, described the creation as “a 24-layer love letter to chocolate in all its fudgy, gooey glory”. They added, “Every slice is hand-cut, hand-finished, and properly decadent, making it perfect for parties, birthdays, or a solo moment of glory with a spoon and zero regrets.”
According to Tesco’s listing, the cake is suitable for up to 10 servings and can be enjoyed either cold or warmed in the microwave for 30–40 seconds for a more intense flavour.
Chocolate fans raise concern over price
Despite the excitement, some shoppers have expressed concerns about the cake’s retail price of £16. Food reviewer @johns_snackreviews shared a post on Instagram highlighting the launch, writing: “NEW Matilda Cake by the Studio Bakery! Out now at Tesco for £16!”
Several users responded with mixed reactions. One wrote, “16 quid for cake! No ta,” while another asked, “£16. Is it worth that price?” A third added: “Omg need, but £16?”
However, others responded more positively. One user joked, “Bruce Bogtrotter is on his way to Tesco,” referencing the character from Matilda, while another said the cake looked “unreal”.
Popularity of Matilda-inspired treats
The Matilda chocolate cake has gained popularity over the years, inspiring home bakers and commercial producers alike. Earlier this year, Leeds-based bakery Baked launched a 24-inch version of the cake called Bertha, sold through luxury retailer Fortnum & Mason in London.
Some shoppers have expressed concerns about the cake’s retail price of £16.Studio Bakery
The Tesco version, produced by Studio Bakery, is a more accessible option for shoppers who want to enjoy a slice of the iconic dessert without baking it themselves or spending a premium.
Product availability and Tesco's response
The Studio Bakery Matilda cake is currently available in Tesco stores and online. While the retailer has not yet responded to questions about pricing or promotional plans, the product has already generated considerable attention on social media.
The combination of nostalgia, indulgence, and social media buzz may help maintain the cake’s popularity despite the pricing concerns.
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The festival was warmly received by recipients and appreciated by local residents
Madhavipriyadas Swami of SGVP Holistic Hospital in Ahmedabad led a mango distribution drive in 2025, providing free mangoes to poor and needy families as part of the SGVP Mango Festival.
The event was held at the SGVP campus and aimed to support underprivileged communities by distributing fresh seasonal fruit during the summer. Thousands of mangoes were handed out to individuals from economically weaker backgrounds.
Thousands of mangoes were handed out to individuals from economically weaker backgroundsSGVP
Swami Madhavipriyadas personally oversaw the initiative, highlighting the hospital’s continued commitment to community welfare and seva (service). Volunteers and staff members of the hospital participated in the event, ensuring the distribution was well-organised and reached the intended beneficiaries.
With the support of its spiritual and community leadersSGVP
The mango distribution is one of SGVP’s ongoing efforts to uplift disadvantaged sections of society by offering food, healthcare, and support. Organisers said the gesture was not only about providing fruit but also about spreading kindness and compassion.
The festival was warmly received by recipients and appreciated by local residents. SGVP plans to continue similar charitable activities in future, with the support of its spiritual and community leaders.