NHS chiefs are warning of a potential 'twindemic' this winter as flu and coronavirus infection levels are already starting to rise. Threats of a 'twindemic' come as Covid-19 hospitalisations climb to their highest in months across the country.
One in 50 people have coronavirus and almost 10,000 patients are in hospital with the disease, according to the latest figures published by the Office of National Statistics (ONS). New subvariants of the virus are sweeping the UK and may have the ability to bypass the immune system, say health experts.
The NHS is urging people to get vaccinated against both the flu and coronavirus as winter heath pressures begin to unfold. Some 400,000 people have been identified as being at risk of serious illness from coronavirus.
READ MORE: One in 50 people have Covid, almost 10,000 are in hospital - who is eligible for a booster jab?
This week, the NHS has started sending out reminders to those at risk, as well as those over the age of 65, to get vaccinated. The emails, letters and texts will advise people on how to take up their free covid booster and annual flu vaccine "ahead of the threat of a potential 'twindemic' this winter and with infection levels already starting to rise", the NHS has said.
Dr Linda Charles-Ozuzu, regional director of commissioning for NHS England and NHS Improvement and senior responsible officer for the COVID-19 Vaccination Programme in the North West, said: “As we prepare for a challenging winter with Covid-19 and flu infections, it is crucial everyone eligible is vaccinated to protect themselves and those around them from becoming seriously ill.
“Thanks to the hard work of NHS staff, partners and volunteers, we’ve delivered more than 800,000 autumn booster vaccines in the first few weeks, which is a great start, and we’re keen to keep up the momentum and see more people coming forward for their life-saving jab.
“If you’re eligible but not yet received your autumn booster jab, don’t delay and get your vaccine as soon as possible.”
The latest figures from the ONS show that around one in 50 people in England had Covid in the week ending 26th September – up by a quarter – with more than 9,500 patients in hospital with Covid-19.
In the North West, the NHS is also rolling out this year’s flu vaccine. The Covid-19 and the flu vaccine can be given on the same day and some people might get both vaccines at the same time. However, this may not always be possible and people are encouraged to get each vaccination as soon as they can, rather than waiting to get both at the same time.
People who have already received their invite, including those who are most vulnerable to serious illness from Covid-19 because they are either aged 65 and over, have suppressed immune systems, are pregnant, have a learning disability or another health issue, are being advised to book in as soon as possible.
People who are at risk are able to self-declare and do not need to wait for an invite, and can attend a walk-in site or book in online at www.nhs.uk/book-covid-booster. People can book in at one of hundreds of sites, including general practices, pharmacies and hospital hubs, or at a walk in site. Anyone who needs help making an appointment should call 119.
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