Medics warn of triple threat

DOCTORS URGE VULNERABLE TO GET THEMSELVES VACCINATED

- HELENA VESTY

THE NHS is warning against a "tripledemic' of viruses this winter.

It comes as the rollout starts of Covid and flu vaccines in the north west for older adults, care home residents, and those with long-term health conditions, with more than 2.8m people eligible for Covid-19 vaccine and 4.2m for the flu jab.

One GP has warned against the three viruses, which all have similar symptoms.

"Each of these viruses can cause severe illness, especially in vulnerable groups like the elderly, young children, and those with weakened immune systems," the GP has said.

DEATHS FROM FLU

New figures from UKHSA revealed that over the past two winters, there have been at least 18,000 deaths associated with flu and more than 19,500 deaths associated with Covid-19 nationally.

Tricia Spedding, NHS England North West Head of Public Health, echoed Dr Linda Charles-Ozuzu's sentiments, stating: "In recent years, we have had thousands of deaths associated with flu and Covid. We know this is something that vaccines are proven to help reduce and with winter fast approaching, where these viruses hit their peak, it is vital that anyone eligible for a vaccination, takes up the offer as soon as they can.

"We have over 230,000 appointments available in the coming week alone, with GP practices, pharmacies and other NHS teams offering quick and easy access to appointments, so if you have not booked yet then please do using the NHS website, NHS App, or by calling 119 - it could keep you out of hospital this winter."

VERY SIMILAR SYMPTOMS