With the nights closing in and temperatures dropping, people across the country are being warned to be on alert for the potential of a ‘tripledemic’ this winter
A doctor has sounded the alarm over a possible ‘tripledemic’ hitting the UK this winter, which could overwhelm the NHS. As the dark nights draw in and the mercury plummets, there’s growing concern that a trio of respiratory illnesses – Covid-19, flu, and RSV – could strike.
The colder months typically see a spike in sickness as viruses thrive and our immune defences are down, not to mention more time spent huddled indoors, creating a hotbed for germs. This perfect storm could lead to a ‘tripledemic’, leaving medics worried about the health of the nation.
Dr Chun Tang, a GP at Pall Mall, warned: “A ‘tripledemic’ refers to side-by-side outbreaks of three respiratory illnesses, typically occurring during the autumn and winter seasons.”
“In recent years, it’s been used to describe the simultaneous spread of Covid-19, influenza (flu), and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Each of these viruses can cause severe illness, especially in vulnerable groups like the elderly, young children, and those with weakened immune systems.
“It is of particular concern now because, as these viruses circulate together, they can put pressure on the NHS due to a greater influx of patients.”
A new Covid-19 variant, dubbed XEC, has emerged this autumn and is fuelling a surge in cases across the UK, sparking anxiety among health officials. Hospital admissions have shot up to 4.55 per 100,000 from 3.72 last week, with a particularly steep rise in the elderly population – notably those aged 85 and above are seeing cases rocket to 52.48 per 100,000.
“RSV, flu, and Covid share many overlapping symptoms like fever, cough, runny nose, and fatigue, which can make it difficult to tell the difference between them,” Dr Tang warned. “Covid-19 may lead to a loss of taste or smell and more frequent breathing difficulties.”
RSV often causes wheezing and is more likely to affect infants, while the flu tends to hit quickly with sudden fever and body aches.
If you’re unsure, testing can confirm which virus is responsible. For infants, seek medical attention if they are struggling to breathe, are dehydrated, or if the child becomes unusually lethargic.
The NHS kicked off its flu and Covid vaccine roll-out at the beginning of October. Older people, care home residents and people with health conditions are all eligible for vaccinations, with jabs set to be given from Thursday.
The latest roll-out comes after health officials raised concerns about a fall in the uptake of the flu vaccine. It is thought that the illness has caused at least 18,000 deaths in the last two years.
“It’s possible to contract more than one of these viruses together,” Dr Tang cautions. “Being infected with multiple respiratory viruses can increase the severity of illness and make it harder for the body to recover, especially for those with weakened immune systems or existing health conditions.”
The people most vulnerable to severe illness from a tripledemic include young children, older adults, and individuals with underlying health conditions, such as asthma, diabetes, or weakened immune systems.
Babies under the age of one, especially those born prematurely, are at higher risk from RSV, while older adults and those with chronic conditions may face more serious complications from the flu and Covid-19.
