"UK's Early Covid Vaccine Rollout Monitors New Variant, BA.2.86, at Care Homes"

England has launched its winter Covid-19 and flu vaccination campaign earlier than planned to prevent a potential "twindemic" and alleviate strain on the healthcare system. The program offers flu vaccines to all and Covid vaccines to eligible groups, including care home residents, over-65s, frontline healthcare workers, and those at clinical risk. The move has been criticized for its short notice, potentially causing confusion. The UK is also monitoring a new Covid variant, BA.2.86 (informally referred to as "Pirola"), but research suggests it does not have a growth advantage or increased severity compared to other variants. Other European nations are also starting their winter vaccination campaigns.