GET VACCINE now to avoid a ‘triple epidemic’ of the virus, NHS bosses have warned – as millions are offered a new jab.
Britons are being urged to book their winter flu, covid-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccinations on Monday.
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Britons urged to book their winter vaccinationsCredit: PA
Public health chiefs said the three viruses could merge into a “triple epidemic”.
NHS head of vaccines Michelle Kane said: “Vaccination is a vital part of our preparations for what is expected to be another challenging winter.
“There are concerns about a potential ‘triple epidemic’ of RSV, Covid-19 and influenza during an already busy period.
“Vaccines help protect people – and those around them – so I would urge everyone who is eligible to get their flu, Covid-19 and RSV shots.”
She added: “Booking is easy either online, via the NHS app or by calling 119.”
Professor Julian Redhead, from NHS England, said: “A&E staff have worked incredibly hard over the past year.
“Patient safety is our priority and will be at the center of attention for providers this winter.
“Vaccines are a key way of protecting people from the spread of the virus and reducing pressure on the NHS.
“That’s why I would urge everyone who is eligible to get their flu, Covid-19 and RSV shots.”
He added: “As always, people should report for care as usual.”
Millions of people will get winter shots for RSV – the virus that causes many coughs and colds.
RSV can be dangerous for young children and the elderly, experts say.
The injection is available to people between the ages of 75 and 79, as well as to pregnant women after 28 weeks.
From Monday, people over 65, residents of nursing homes and people with health problems can order injections against the flu and covid-19.
Vaccines against covid and flu are also offered to frontline health and social workers.
If you are eligible, you can get the injections from your local pharmacy or GP surgery from 3 October.
dr. Mary Ramsay from the UK’s Health Security Agency said: “Our ongoing surveillance shows that Covid-19 continues to cause serious illness.
“It puts a lot of people in the hospital, especially older people and those with underlying health problems.
“But it also shows that autumn vaccines are effective in providing extra protection to those most at risk.
“Vaccines almost halve the likelihood of hospitalization due to the virus several months after vaccination and during the winter period.
“I urge everyone who is eligible to take up the vaccine offer as soon as possible after being invited.
“It will help improve your immunity to Covid-19, which weakens over time.”
Health Minister Karin Smyth said: “Services have been failing for too long and change cannot happen overnight.
“But we are working closely with foundations and local authorities across the country to begin our preparations for the colder months.”
Smyth added: “We are continuing with our plans to build a future-proof NHS.
“But this government has been clear that we cannot continue to solve the annual winter crisis with band-aids.
“That’s why we’re working to radically reform the NHS through a 10-year plan and build a health service that’s fit for the future all year round.”
Symptoms of RSV
PEOPLE usually show symptoms of the virus four to six days after being infected.
Signs include:
- Runny nose
- Decreased appetite
- Cough
- Sneezing
- Fever
- Wheezing
But symptoms can be much more subtle in very young babies, including irritability, reduced activity and difficulty breathing.
Most children will have an RSV infection by their second birthday.
It can cause a condition called bronchiolitis in babies and young children.
Symptoms of bronchiolitis in very young infants include:
- Refusal to breastfeed or bottle feed
- Rapid and noisy breathing (wheezing)
- Appears very tired, upset, or inactive
- Signs of dehydration – lack of tears during crying, little or no urine in diapers for six hours and cold, dry skin
Source: CDC, Asthma + Lung UK
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Source: HIS Education