What is the ‘twindemic’ and how will this affect us this winter?
Throughout the UK, fears are growing that there will be a larger wave of flu and Covid this winter in what the NHS has labelled a ‘twindemic’.
This year, the seasonal flu virus is predicted to hit the UK early in an autumn wave, and doctors are urging eligible people to receive the flu vaccine and Covid booster.
The term ‘twindemic’ was created to describe the predicted wave of both Covid-19 and the flu — this is an issue the NHS is trying to address in its new flu campaign this year.
This larger wave was seen in Australia and other countries in the southern hemisphere during their winter.
The UK is entering the first winter without Covid-19 restrictions, which means people are starting to mix more with lower levels of immunity to the strain after limiting contact for the last two years.
The NHS director of vaccinations and screening, Steve Russell said in a statement: “The NHS is leaving no stone unturned in its mission to stop the potential ‘twindemic’ this winter, with 4.6 million autumn booster jabs already delivered and the national flu campaign well underway to combat lower than usual levels of immunity to flu due quieter flu seasons over the pandemic.”
Research shows that if you get the flu and Covid-19 at the same time, there is a higher chance of becoming seriously ill, according to the NHS, and that cold weather can lead to ‘serious complications, especially if you are 65 or older, or if you have a long-term health condition’.
Who is eligible for a free flu vaccine in the UK?
It is free on the NHS for people who:
● Are 65+
● Are pregnant
● Have certain long-term health conditions
● Work in social care
● Are front-line healthcare workers
● Are in residential care
● Have a weakened immune system
Most young children have not built up a natural immunity to the flu yet, as they have not encountered the flu, mainly due to the reduction in contact for the last two years.
Experts say that it is vital that they take the nasal spray flu vaccine which is available for all school children, aged 2+.
