Brits are being urged to book their winter vaccines for the flu, covid-19 and RSV ahead of time – as public health bosses say the three viruses could combine into a ‘tripledemic’
A deadly ‘tripledemic’ of viruses may sweep the country if Brits fail to get their winter vaccinations, health experts have warned.
NHS chiefs say now is the time to book winter vaccines for the flu, covid-19 and (respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), with millions offered a new jab from as early as Monday, September 23. Combined, the three viruses could trigger a “tripledemic” as we enter what is expected to be a challenging winter.
NHS vaccine chief Michelle Kane said: “Vaccination is a vital part of our preparations for what’s expected to be another challenging winter. There are concerns about a potential ‘tripledemic’ of RSV, Covid-19 and flu during an already busy period. Vaccines help protect people — and those around them — so I would urge everyone eligible to get their flu, Covid-19 and RSV jabs booked.” She added: “Booking is simple either online, via the NHS App or by calling 119.”
NHS England’s Prof Julian Redhead said: “Staff in urgent and emergency care have worked incredibly hard over the last year. Patient safety is our number priority and will be the focus for providers this winter. Vaccines are a crucial way of protecting people against the spread of viruses and reducing strain on the NHS. So I would urge everyone eligible to get their flu, Covid-19 and RSV jabs booked.” He added: “As ever people should come forward for care in the usual way.”
Millions of Brits will be vaccinated for RSV, which causes coughs and colds, and can be dangerous for young children and elderly people, according to experts. Those eligible for the jab are people aged between 75 and 79, as well as pregnant women past the 28-week mark.
Brits over 65, care home residents and patients with health problems can also book flu and covid-19 jabs from Monday. They will also be offered to frontline health and social care workers. Eligible Brits can receive their jabs at a local pharmacy or GP practice from October 3.
The UK Health Security Agency’s Dr Mary Ramsay said: “Our ongoing surveillance shows that Covid-19 continues to cause severe illness. It is putting many in hospital, particularly older people and those with underlying medical conditions. But it also shows that the autumn vaccines are effective in helping to give added protection to those most at risk.
“Vaccines almost halve the likelihood of hospitalisation from the virus for a few months following vaccination and over the winter period. I urge everyone who is eligible to take up the offer of a vaccine as soon as possible once invited. It will help improve your immunity to Covid-19, which does wane over time.”
Health minister Karin Smyth said: “Services have been failed for too long and change cannot happen overnight. But we are working closely with trusts and local authorities across the country to start our preparations for the colder months.” Smyth added: “We continue our plans to build an NHS that is fit for the future.
“But this government has been clear that we cannot continue to fix the annual winter crisis with sticking plasters. That’s why we are working to radically reform the NHS through the 10-year plan and build a health service that is fit for the future all year round.”
