A TV doctor is urging people to do one thing this winter as Christmas approaches. A poll of 2,000 adults found that more than half of under 24s (59%) plan to visit elderly relatives even if they are sick with Covid, flu or norovirus this Christmas period.
Now, following the new research conducted by Newfoundland Diagnostics, Dr Hilary Jones has urged Brits to test for flu and Covid-19. The Good Morning Britain doctor has warned it could be a grim winter ahead and says the move could help protect your loved ones.
He said: “The worrying new data shows that this could be one of the worst Christmases on record for the country. We’ve already seen a rise in Covid, norovirus and flu cases compared to previous years, and judging by these findings, risky behaviours will no doubt exacerbate infection rates.
“This isn’t about cancelling Christmas, but rather using common sense and taking precautions to ensure festivities aren’t ruined. Testing before visiting elderly, vulnerable relatives or attending mass gatherings, avoiding contact with people if you’re unwell and being mindful of shared spaces are all small steps that can have a massive impact on the transmission of viruses.
“Not only will this help reduce the strain on the NHS during what’s already a very challenging winter for our precious health service but could potentially save lives.”
The study looked at Gen Z’s festive behaviours, with more than half (52%) admitting they would hug and kiss friends or colleagues whilst sick. They also admitted that they will still drink alcohol (30%), share vapes & cigarettes (20%) and even use recreational drugs with one another (12%) whilst sick, further increasing the risk of a superspreader Christmas.
Despite an overwhelming number of Gen Z willing to infect their families, 28% of Gen Zs wouldn’t tell anyone that they were sick with Covid, flu or norovirus. With the ‘triple-demic’ cases of flu, norovirus, and Covid already surging, health experts at Newfoundland warn that Brits’ disregard for illness may result in a public health disaster.
With Newfoundland offering at-home testing options like Covid & Flu Combo Tests (£4.99), Strep A Tests (£9.99), and Vitamin D Tests (£7.99), individuals now have accessible tools to quickly diagnose and manage their health, helping to mitigate the spread of infectious diseases during the festive season. Frederick Manduca, co-founder of Newfoundland Diagnostics, said: “This research exposes a critical threat to our NHS.
“When individuals attend social events while ill, they’re not just risking personal health, but potentially triggering a domino effect that could overwhelm our already strained healthcare system. Every unnecessary transmission increases hospital admissions, delays critical treatments, and puts immense pressure on healthcare workers.
“Our message is clear; use affordable at-home testing, stay home when unwell, and take simple steps to protect both your health and our NHS.” To keep track of your health this festive season, get your easy-to-use Newfoundland at-home health tests at https://www.newfoundland.io/shop.