Tripledemic warning from the UK:Ignore At Your Own Risk

What happens with COVID in the United Kingdom usually soon happens in the United States, so I'm taking this seriously and not dropping my guard any time soon:

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From SurreyLive, October 15, 2024:

Doctor issues dire 'tripledemic' warning to Brits for this winter

There are fears that the side-by-side outbreaks of these three respiratory illnesses could have major repercussions for the NHS 

"A doctor has warned of a potential 'tripledemic' this winter, which could put major strain on the NHS. With the nights closing in and temperature dropping, there are fears that Covid-19, flu, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) could hit the nation hard.

"Illnesses often spread rapidly over winter, with many viruses thriving and our immune systems weakened. And with people often spending more time indoors, it means the conditions are ripe for illness.

"That leaves the UK open for a 'tripledemic', leaving doctors concerned for the nation's health this winter. Dr Chun Tang, a GP at Pall Mall, said: “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, known as XEC, has been identified this autumn and is contributing to rising case numbers across the UK, leading to growing unease amongst health officials. Hospital admission rates have escalated to 4.55 per 100,000 from 3.72 last week, with a particularly sharp increase in the older demographic – notably those aged 85 and above are experiencing cases up 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 added.

"“Covid-19 may lead to a loss of taste or smell and more frequent breathing difficulties,” highlights Tang. “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 start of October saw the NHS start its flu and Covid vaccine roll-out. 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,” warns Tang. “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.”