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COVID cases have spiked in a Spanish tourist hotspot loved by Brits this summer. Medical professionals are referring to the infection, known as variant 'XFG', as "the new flu", with symptoms appearing much less severe than the pandemic.

Even though flu normally strikes in Winter, air conditioning is thought to be spreading the germs in hot weather in Malaga, Spain. Owner of a pharmacy in the capital, Asunción Pérez de la Masa, said: "COVID tests are selling out again. We're noticing this throughout the month of August," speaking to Diario Sur. She emphasised that tests are particularly important for those who care for elderly people.

A family doctor and vice president of the College of Physicians, José Antonio Trujillo, explained why the summer coronavirus known as "the new flu" is spreading.

He said the hot weather means that people gather inside with air conditioning. and close doors to maintain the temperature, but incidents increase because air conditioning "increases transmission".

Sources consulted by the Málaga Medical Association confirmed "the incidence is on the rise", reports Diario Sur.

This variant is believed to be mild compared to past peaks, and currently, there is no suggestion that coronavirus cases are accompanied by serious symptoms.

The vaccines administered to Malaga residents in the previous vaccination campaign are thought to protect against the current COVID variant.

In the UK, the Spring COVID-19 vaccination period has ended, and the NHS will contact people later this year if they are eligible for the winter COVID-19 vaccine.

It is usually offered on the NHS in spring and early winter to people who need extra protection from COVID-19, for those who are aged 75 or over, aged 6 months to 74 years and have a weakened immune system because of a health condition or treatment, or live in a care home for older adults.