With the UK facing a potential ‘quadrupledemic’ this winter, an NHS GP has shared some advice on how people can help speed up their recovery from viruses including Covid-19
An NHS GP has sounded the alarm for Brits, urging them to ditch booze and coffee if they’re eager to bounce back quicker from bugs.
Talking to Bella magazine, he pointed out that cutting out these drinks is key to help your body rehydrate and recover in double-quick time. Dr David Nichols said: “Consider how much you’re drinking. Your body uses more energy when fighting an infection, so it’s really important to increase your water intake during this period.
“Avoid alcohol and caffeine too. Anything which dehydrates you isn’t going to help with a speedy recovery.” Not stopping there, Dr Nichols highlighted the vital role of good grub in staving off and fending off infections. He asserted: “When you have flu or Covid, it’s not unusual to lose your appetite, but eating high protein foods can help with your energy and recovery.”
All this comes as the UK gears up for the chill of the winter months, traditionally a hotbed for sniffles and sneezes. With the mercury dropping and experts sweating over the prospect of a feared ‘quadrupledemic’ – the concurrent onslaughts of Covid-19, RSV, flu and norovirus – it seems Dr Nichols’ advice might just be the ticket for staying perky through the frosty season.
GP Dr Roger Henderson issued a stark warning in the Mirror previously, saving that the UK could be on the brink of a ‘quadrupledemic’ this winter which might put the NHS under strain like never before. He pointed out: “There is a risk that we could see a ‘quadrupledemic’ this winter, with COVID-19, flu, RSV, and a new superbug – the highly contagious norovirus – all in circulation. When these infections overlap, they pose a heightened risk, especially for the elderly, young children, and people with existing health issues,” reports the Express.
Echoing his apprehensions, superintendent pharmacist Carolina Goncalves has also put up a red flag, saying: “The risk of a ‘quadrupledemic’ is quite real for some individuals.”
She discussed the potential perils that come with simultaneous waves of Covid-19, flu, RSV, and norovirus, notably stacked sicknesses combined with seasonally driven indoor crowding and compromised immune defences during the chillier part of the year.
Goncalves has sounded the alarm on the severe dangers posed by norovirus, warning: “Dehydration is one of the most serious risks associated with norovirus. Warning signs include dizziness, confusion, reduced urination or dark urine. These symptoms require immediate medical attention to avoid further complications.”
Amidst fears of a looming ‘quadrupledemic’, medical experts are increasingly worried about the rise in antibiotic-resistant illnesses, as SurreyLive reports. The situation has become so critical that it’s now under the scrutiny of the United Kingdom Health Security Agency (UKHSA).
Professor Dame Jenny Harries, the Chief Executive of UKHSA, recognised the government’s actions to address the crisis but stressed that the public must also contribute. She advised: “While we work with partners to innovate new approaches and life-saving treatments, there are steps everyone can take. Take up the vaccinations you are eligible for to help stop infections in the first place. Only take antibiotics if you have been told to do so by a healthcare professional.”
“Do not save some for later or share them with friends and family. This isn’t just for your own health – it’s about protecting everyone in our communities and future generations.”
