Millions of Britons risk serious illness during this winter’s predicted ‘triple epidemic’ – because they haven’t been vaccinated, experts warn.
Fears have been growing that Britain could face a wave of flu, a new Covid variant and RSV infections in the coming months.
For this reason, the NHS offers vaccines to people at risk of becoming seriously ill if they contract one of the bugs, including people with lung problems, diabetes and obesity.
There are 2.8 million people eligible for the Covid jab and 4.2 million due for a flu shot – but public health officials are concerned that many are not taking up the call.
Despite new data showing that 18,000 people have died from the flu in the past two years, researchers have found that as many as one in four at-risk patients plan to avoid vaccination altogether.
There is growing concern about the rise of COVID XEC, with cases currently approaching 4,000 per week
RSV is most commonly spread through coughing and sneezing, close contact with an infected person, or contact with contaminated surfaces
Experts warn that people most at risk should be vaccinated this winter
Around 2.2 million Britons are now considered morbidly obese, meaning their body mass index (BMI) is 40 or higher.
People who are morbidly obese are eligible for a free Covid and flu jab, according to NHS guidelines. They are currently not offered the RSV shot, although older people do receive it.
But one study, which surveyed 3,000 adults, found that a quarter of people with underlying health conditions don’t think they need the jabs.
Despite this, half of all people with a high-risk condition are concerned about contracting a disease such as flu or Covid-19 in the coming months.
‘One group that is often overlooked is people with a BMI over 40,’ says Professor Paul Gately, CEO of Obesity UK. The sun.
“Many do not realize they are eligible for these vaccines because their weight alone puts them at greater risk of serious consequences.
‘Obesity impairs lung function, weakens the immune response and increases the risk of inflammation, all of which can make respiratory infections more serious.’
Common Covid symptoms include high temperature, persistent cough, loss of sense of taste or smell. (Stock photo)
The XEC strain comes after health experts warned about the FLiRT variant sweeping the UK
The survey was commissioned by Moderna UK and conducted by OnePoll.com.
Dr. Philip Cruz, national medical director at Moderna UK, said: ‘It’s important that people in high-risk groups prioritize their health, especially as we enter the autumn and winter seasons.
‘For these high-risk groups, respiratory diseases such as Covid-19 and influenza can be particularly dangerous, leading to serious complications and hospital admissions.
‘Vaccinations are an important tool to help reduce these risks and protect the most vulnerable.
‘As we head into winter, it is important that people recognize the steps they need to take to stay healthy.
‘In addition to essentials like eating well, staying active and getting enough rest, checking your eligibility for respiratory vaccines should be a top priority.’
Dr. Linda Charles-Ozuzu, Regional Director of Commissioning for NHS England, also said: ‘The winter vaccination program provides vital protection to people who need it most.
‘It saves lives, but it also helps the NHS by reducing hospital admissions and easing pressure on already incredibly busy services.
‘People with certain long-term health conditions, pregnant women, young children and the elderly are among those eligible for some or all of these life-saving vaccines.
“If you are invited, don’t hesitate and make sure you get the vaccines.
‘And if you’re not sure if you qualify or have any concerns, please speak to your GP or local pharmacist.’
