Experts say the UK’s oncoming tripledemic could be ‘particularly nasty’ and anyone who qualifies for a vaccine is urged to have one. Pharmacy chain Well Pharmacy is calling on people to get vaccinated as the nation is set for a ‘tripledemic’ of colds, flu and covid this winter.
Pharmacists from Well study the numbers from Australia as the Southern Hemisphere can offer an indication on how likely a large flu season could be in the Northern Hemisphere. Data from Australia indicates that this flu season could be particularly nasty as the Australian winter saw flu surpass the five-year average, particularly in Western Australia.
Well Pharmacy has advised that those who are eligible should book their double dose of vaccination which would see the flu jab and a Covid vaccine given on the same day. While the flu vaccine is free for those aged 65 or over, pregnant or with long term health conditions, the jab costs £17.99 for everyone else and can be booked on the Well website whilst the Covid vaccine can be booked on the NHS booking system.
This would provide maximum protection by Christmas meaning that vulnerable individuals should be safe to socialise with friends and family. During long winters, cold, flu, pneumonia and Covid can become very prevalent, and it is key that people know when to seek out medical attention for their ailments.
Last year, excess deaths associated with flu were 14,500 – more than 1,000 deaths above the five-year average before the pandemic. This month, the NHS launched its vaccination campaign in a bid to avoid the so-called ‘tripledemic’ of colds, flu and Covid this winter.
Headaches, sore throats and coughs are common to all three winter bugs – but there are tell-tale symptoms to each one. And, if a patient is struggling to breath, they could be suffering from pneumonia or Covid.
Well Pharmacy deputy superintendent George Sandhu has detailed the unique symptoms of all four illnesses that Brits should be keenly aware of this winter.
1. Dry or phlegm producing cough and nasal congestion, it’s a cold
Symptoms of a cold will gradually appear after two or three days with many people including a blocked nose, sore throat and sneezing amongst their issues. The cold should subside inside a week with lingering symptoms lasting a fortnight before beginning to feel better.
A pharmacist can advise on the best cold and flu remedies including decongestants to purchase over the counter to ensure comfort whilst suffering with a cold.
2. Shivering, fatigue and headaches, you’ve got the flu
Flu can come on very suddenly especially in the winter months, but it is important to make sure that you seek medical attention if required. Symptoms of the flu include a sudden high temperature, aching body and feeling tired and exhausted as well as the same dry or phlegm producing cough that comes with a cold.
It is likely that you will feel tired and exhuasted, and you might not have any appetite for several days though it is important to stay hydrated. If suffering from the flu it is important to try and stay warm and rest as much as possible, have a loved one visit your local Well Pharmacy and purchase paracetamol and other flu remedies.
People who are eligible should also make an appointment to get their flu vaccine to avoid the serious impact which can be caused by getting the flu.
3. Loss of taste and smell, fatigue and fever? Covid is to blame
Many people believe that Covid is no longer an issue after lockdowns were lifted a few years ago. However, if you begin to feel fatigued and notice a loss in your ability to taste food or smell any odours then it is important to take a Covid test.
It is the loss of taste and smell that distinguishes Covid from the flu or pneumonia as it is rare for this to occur when dealing with any other winter bugs.The symptoms of Covid are very similar to those of a cold and flu but it is imperative that you try to stay at home and avoid contact with other people if diagnosed with Covid until you feel better.
Well Pharmacy can offer Covid tests over the counter however if you think you have Covid then it is advised to have someone else pick up the tests for you. It is important to rest and drink plenty of fluids to avoid getting dehydrated whilst suffering from Covid whilst also avoiding activities withothers to stop the spread of infection.
4. Struggling to breathe, shivering and chest pain? Pneumonia is the cause
Pneumonia is caused by an inflammation of the lungs which is usually triggered by an infection. Whilst some people might only feel the effects for a fortnight, the elderly and those with heart and lung conditions are at risk of getting seriously ill and needing hospital treatment.
People sometimes think they only have the flu and try to remedy their symptoms themselves as both present with similar symptoms so it is important to consult a medical professional if you don’t feel better within a week. It is important to take medication such as paracetamol to help with any pain or high temperature that might come with pneumonia.
The risk of suffering complications from pneumonia can be reduced by making sure to receive all vaccines including the flu and Covid vaccines as well as a pneumonia jab which are all available from Well Pharmacy.
The following tips will help you stay as healthy as possible over the winter months which are approaching.
- Getting enough quality sleep – going to bed at a similar time and waking up around the same time each morning can boost immunity.
- Eat the rainbow – a varied and balanced diet with an array of fruit and vegetables can help support our bodies through the darker months.
- Staying hydrated – the weather may be colder, but people still need to ensure they keep up their fluid intake. Herbal and fruit teas are perfect for the colder days.
- Get some sunlight – the days may be shorter but getting some daylight each day can make all the difference to physical and mental health.
- Keep Vaccinations Current : Ensure you’re up to date with vaccinations, including flu and pneumonia jabs.
- Practise Good Hygiene : Regular handwashing is a simple but effective way to prevent the spread of illness.
George Sandhu said that people spend more time indoors during the winter months and that it is important we know the risks. He said: “Winter keeps us indoors, creating a perfect breeding ground for viruses like flu, pneumonia, and Covid-19 due to poor ventilation.
“It’s crucial to be aware of the symptoms that could indicate something more serious than just a cold. Strengthening our immunity is key, especially during these colder months when our immune systems may be more vulnerable.”