A surge in various illnesses is sweeping through the UK due to colder weather and increased socialisation as Christmas swiftly approaches.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has warned of a significant increase in Covid-19, flu, and norovirus cases, prompting concerns about the potential impact on Christmas gatherings.
In its weekly winter briefing, the UKHSA reported a notable increase in influenza positivity, nearly doubling from the previous week. Intensive Care Unit (ICU) admissions and Accident & Emergency (A&E) attendances for flu and flu-like illnesses are also on the rise.
Dr. Mary Ramsay, Director of Public Health Programmes at UKHSA, expressed the agency’s perspective on the current situation.
She said: “The effects of the recent cold weather and increased socialising indoors in the run-up to Christmas are unsurprisingly causing flu and Covid-19 to spread more easily and numbers infected going up further.”
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While Covid-19 rates are rising across most regions and age groups, current ICU admission rates remain low and stable.
However, experts anticipate a delayed increase in hospital admissions and ICU rates in the new year, given the current surge in case rates.
Dr. Ramsay emphasised the importance of vaccination, urging eligible individuals to get vaccinated against both infections.
She said: “If you are eligible for a flu and Covid-19 vaccine, you can still speak to your GP about getting vaccinated to help protect you from these infections.
“Nobody wants to get their new year off to a bad start, so be sure to gift yourself the best possible protection against flu and Covid-19 as we head into peak season.”
Expressing concern over unvaccinated high-risk groups, Dr. Ramsay urged pregnant women and those in clinical risk categories to come forward for vaccination.
She added: “Children aged 2 or 3 years are also eligible for a quick and painless nasal spray flu vaccine, which helps prevent hospitalisations, as well as helps parents from not having to juggle a poorly child with work and other commitments.”
Highlighting the similarities in symptoms between Covid-19 and flu, the NHS urged individuals to be vigilant.
Common symptoms include a high temperature, cough, loss of taste or smell, shortness of breath, fatigue, body aches, headache, sore throat, and gastrointestinal issues. As these symptoms mirror those of the flu, the NHS stressed the need for proper testing to differentiate between the two.
Meanwhile, the rise of norovirus poses an additional threat. Dr. Lesley Larkin, Interim Deputy Director of Gastrointestinal Infections and Food Safety at UKHSA, warned of an increase in norovirus cases, especially among individuals aged 65 and older and in care homes.
She cautioned: “Norovirus cases continue to rise, especially among those 65 and older and in care homes.” Health officials advise those suffering from norovirus or similar stomach bugs to avoid preparing Christmas meals.
With the holiday season in full swing, health authorities underscore the importance of hygiene practices, proper ventilation, and staying home when feeling unwell to curb the spread of illnesses.