December 2nd 2024.
As we enter into the holiday season, it seems that sickness is taking over instead of the usual festive cheer. If you find yourself sniffling or with a scratchy throat, you're definitely not alone. This time of year is notorious for the winter bug season, and three of the main culprits have seen a rise in cases this week.
The combination of flu, RSV, norovirus, and Covid-19 has been dubbed the 'quad-demic' by doctors. None of these viruses are particularly enjoyable, but when they all decide to show up at once, it can make for an even more unpleasant experience. Recent data from the UK Health Security Agency reveals that all four viruses have seen an increase in activity, except for Covid-19, which has remained stable at baseline levels.
Flu activity has risen across most indicators, while Respiratory Syncytial Virus has also seen an increase and is currently circulating at medium levels of activity. The government releases weekly surveillance data during the winter season to track the levels of these four viruses and provide public health advice.
So, what exactly are these four viruses that make up the 'quad-demic'? We have flu, Covid-19, RSV, and norovirus. According to NHS GP David Lloyd, the term 'quad-demic' refers to the four common viral illnesses that tend to peak during the winter months.
Last month, there was a spike in norovirus cases, with numbers doubling compared to the average of the previous five years. It seems that a new strain has taken hold and is causing more cases. Dr. Alexander Allen, a consultant epidemiologist at UKHSA, explains that the rise in winter illnesses can be attributed to the flu, with an increase in emergency department attendances as well. He also urges anyone who is still eligible for the flu, Covid-19, or RSV vaccines to schedule an appointment before the busy winter season.
Vaccination is the best defense against these viruses, and now is the time to get protected before the holiday season. The government is advising anyone experiencing symptoms such as a high temperature, cough, and fatigue to limit their contact with others, especially those who are vulnerable. Regularly washing your hands and using tissues can also help reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses.
This year, for the first time, pregnant women who are 28 weeks or more along with individuals aged 75 to 79 can receive the RSV vaccine. Getting vaccinated during week 28 or shortly after can help build up antibodies to pass on to their baby before birth, providing them with the best protection, even if they are born prematurely. So, let's all take care of ourselves and each other during this quadruple threat of viruses and stay healthy this winter.
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