Millions of Brits are risking severe illness during this winter’s predicted ‘tripledemic’ — because they are unvaccinated, experts have warned.
Fears have grown that in the coming months the UK could face a surge in flu, a new Covid variant and RSV infections.
For this reason, the NHS offers vaccines to people who risk getting seriously unwell if they catch one of the bugs, including those with lung problems, diabetes and obesity.
There are 2.8million eligible for the Covid jab and 4.2 million due a flu jab — but public health officials are concerned many aren’t taking up the call.
Despite new data showing 18,000 people died of flu over the past two years, researchers have discovered as many as one in four high risk patients may plan to shun vaccination altogether.
There is a growing concern over the rise of COVID XEC with nearly 4,000 cases a week at the moment
RSV is usually spread via coughs and sneezes, close contact with an infected person or contact with contaminated surfaces
Experts are warning that people most at risk need to get vaccinated this winter
Around 2.2million Brits are now considered morbidly obese, which means their body mass index (BMI) is 40 or higher.
People who are morbidly obese are eligible for a free Covid and flu jab, under NHS guidelines. Currently they will not be offered the RSV jab, although the elderly do get it.
But a survey, which quizzed 3,000 adults, found a quarter of people with underlying health conditions don’t think they need the jabs.
Despite this, half of all those with a high-risk condition are worried about contracting an illness like flu or Covid-19 in the coming months.
‘One group that often gets overlooked is people who are living with a BMI over 40,’ Professor Paul Gately, CEO of Obesity UK, told The Sun.
‘Many don’t realise they are eligible for these vaccines because their weight alone puts them at a higher risk for severe outcomes.
‘Obesity impairs lung function, weakens the immune response, and increases the likelihood of inflammation, all of which can make respiratory infections more severe.’
Usual Covid symptoms include a high temperature, continuous cough, loss of sense of taste or smell. (Stock photo)
The XEC strain comes after health experts were warning about the FLiRT variant sweeping the UK
The research was commissioned by Moderna UK and carried out OnePoll.com.
Dr Philip Cruz, country medical director at Moderna UK, said: ‘It’s important that people from high-risk groups prioritise their health, especially as we enter the autumn and winter seasons.
‘Respiratory illnesses like Covid-19 and flu can be particularly dangerous for these high-risk groups, leading to severe complications and hospitalisations.
‘Vaccinations are an important tool to help reduce these risks and protect the most vulnerable.
‘As we head into winter, it is important people recognise the steps they need to take to stay healthy.
‘Alongside essentials like eating well, staying active, and getting enough rest, checking if you’re eligible for respiratory vaccines should be a top priority.’
Dr Linda Charles-Ozuzu, Regional Director of Commissioning for NHS England, also said: ‘The winter vaccination programme offers vital protection to people who need it most.
‘It saves lives, but also it helps the NHS by reducing hospital admissions and easing pressure on services that are already incredibly busy.
‘People with certain long-term health conditions, pregnant women, young infants and older people are among those eligible for some or all of these life-saving vaccines.
‘If invited, please don’t delay – get the vaccines.
‘And if you’re unsure if you’re eligible or have any concerns, please speak with your GP surgery or local pharmacist.’
