After 18 months of social distancing, the UK is experiencing a surge in common colds and other respiratory infections as schools reopen and autumn begins. Experts warn that weakened immune defences due to prolonged lockdown measures may lead to more frequent infections and severe symptoms.
Public Health England reports no particularly nasty new virus, but cases are rising, especially among under-15s, though older age groups are also affected. The return of mixing after social distancing and mask wearing has left many with reduced immunity to common viruses.
Professor Ronald Eccles, former director of the Common Cold Centre at Cardiff University, noted that the system has been 'knocked out of kilter' by anti-Covid measures. Similar surges have been seen in Hong Kong and New Zealand after lockdowns, with respiratory illnesses occurring earlier and affecting more people.
Professor Stephen Holgate at Southampton General Hospital added that the UK is already seeing increased RSV cases and childhood hospital admissions. He stressed that waning population immunity is likely causing more severe illness.
Dr Gary Howsam of the Royal College of GPs emphasised the importance of PCR testing for Covid-19 symptoms, as they can mimic common colds. Dr Yvonne Doyle of Public Health England urged continued hand washing, ventilation, and mask wearing to reduce the burden on the NHS this winter.
